By Carole Dennett
The Isle of Wight’s first credible sighting of an Asian hornet has been recorded in Cowes, triggering an urgent search for a nest by the IW Asian Hornet team.
Photographic evidence confirmed the presence of the invasive predator, which at 20–24mm (0.8–0.95 inches) is slightly smaller than the native European hornet but larger than a common wasp. The Asian hornet – also known as the yellow-legged hornet – is identifiable by its dark, velvety body, an orange band near the end of its abdomen, a distinct orange face, and bright yellow tips on its legs.
The arrival of the species is deeply concerning for conservationists and beekeepers. Asian hornets hover outside hives to capture honeybees, a single insect can kill up to 50 bees a day. They also prey on other native pollinators. Left unchecked, the species could decimate local bee colonies, threaten native biodiversity and affect vital crop pollination.
A spokeswoman for the team said: “We’ve had a credible sighting of an Asian Hornet in Cowes and we would ask members of the public to be vigilant and use the Asian Hornet app to photograph and report sightings. This invasive species poses a serious threat to all native insects, including honeybees, which we rely upon for pollination. We urge Islanders to be vigilant, as if we can act quickly, we hope we can eradicate this predator before it establishes.”
The help of the public is vital to prevent the pest from establishing a permanent foothold on the Island. Residents are urged to download the Asian Hornet Watch app, which is available for iOS and Android and can be found using the QR code on the poster below. Photographic evidence is needed to verify reports.
Anyone who spots a suspected hornet that does not have access to the app should send the photograph, along with details of the time and location of the sighting, to 07833 394730. The insect can inflict a nasty sting so do not disturb it or try to trap it.
Mal Butler