Asian Hornets: Spotting, Risks and Simple Control Tips

Asian hornets have been showing up in more places across the UK lately. They look bigger than the common wasp and can cause real problems for people, pets and even honeybees. If you know what they look like and how to act, you can keep yourself safe and help protect local wildlife.

How to Spot an Asian Hornet

First impression matters. An Asian hornet is about 2.5‑3 inches long, so it’s noticeably larger than a typical wasp. Its head is dark, the thorax is orange‑brown, and the abdomen has a distinct dark band near the tip. The wings are longer and more translucent than a regular wasp’s. When they’re at a nest, you’ll often see a cluster of grey‑brown paper that looks a bit smoother than a wasp's paper nest.

If you see a hornet swooping close to your garden in late summer, pause and check the size. Asian hornets are also more aggressive when defending their nest, so they may chase you more persistently than local wasps.

What to Do If You Find One

Stay calm and keep distance. Don’t try to smash the hornet – it can sting multiple times and the stings are painful. Instead, call your local council or a certified pest control service. In many areas, there are dedicated hotlines for reporting Asian hornets because early removal helps stop a new colony from spreading.

If you’re comfortable, you can set up a simple trap. Hang a bottle with a piece of fruit inside near where you saw the hornet. The sweet smell attracts them, and they get stuck in the narrow opening. Remember to wear gloves when handling the trap.

Protect your bees too. Asian hornets prey on honeybees, so beekeepers should inspect hives regularly. Adding a bee‑protective screen or a hornet‑proof entrance can reduce attacks.

Finally, spread the word. Tell neighbours, post on community boards, and share photos with local wildlife groups. The more people know how to identify Asian hornets, the faster they can be dealt with.

Keeping an eye out and acting quickly makes a big difference. Asian hornets may look impressive, but with a little knowledge you can keep your garden safe and protect the native insects that keep the environment healthy.