UK put on high alert as deadly Asian hornets set to invade - here's what to do if you spot one

The UK is on high alert for an invasion of Asian hornets and experts have warned what to do if you spot one. The Wildlife and Countryside Link (WCL) has issued a warning that the recent floods and rising temperatures have heightened the risk of an influx.

Richard Benwell, WCL's chief executive, stated: "Invasive species are already one of the biggest threats to the UK environment, from smothering waterways to outcompeting native species. They also cause billions of pounds in damage a year to homes and businesses, and even pose risks to human health."

"Investment in a fully-funded inspectorate and a strong invasive species strategy could make a contribution to halting nature's decline and creating a more resilient economy," Mr Benwell added.

Read more:

• BBC Garden Rescue star identifies 'near-indestructible' plants that are 'slug-proof'

• Gardener's simple £5 hack to keep slugs away gets wife's seal of approval

Dr Rob Collins, director of Policy and Science at The Rivers Trust, said the winter weather conditions have left local trusts "struggling to keep a wave of invasive species at bay" as their efforts are thwarted by wet weather.

"The Government must properly support local conservation groups nationwide who are working tirelessly to stop our waterways being smothered by nature invaders," he urged. Asian hornets first arrived in France in 2004 and have since spread across large areas of Western Europe, BirminghamLive reports.

The first confirmed sighting of an Asian hornet was in 2016 and, since then there have been 109 confirmed sightings in the country, including 85 nests. Most sightings this year have been recorded in eastern parts of the UK but two nests were destroyed in Devon last year.

Want the latest Devon breaking news and top stories first? Click here to join our WhatsApp group. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice

Defra has emphasised the importance of the native European hornet to British wildlife, urging the public not to harm queens or nests. Instead, sightings should be reported using the Asian Hornet Watch App.

Martin Smith, Public Affairs Manager at the British Beekeepers' Association, welcomed the new app by Defra: "This new app launched today by Defra is a welcome addition to current reporting methods that have enabled beekeepers and members of the public to report possible sightings. The key to containment is catching outbreaks as early as possible and allowing fast tracking of the insects back to their nest."

Smith also encouraged vigilance among beekeepers: "We will certainly be encouraging all our 25,000 beekeepers to install the app and use it if they see what might be an Asian hornet near their hives."