Beekeepers are traveling from England to Jersey to learn how to better control Asian hornet numbers, as sightings of the insects increase across the country. The invasive species prey on native bees, which can disrupt local ecosystems by destroying entire bee colonies and, in the process, impacting biodiversity.
Asian Hornets, also known as Vespa Velutina, pose a serious threat to the native bees of the UK. These predatory insects feed on bees, causing devastation in bee colonies and negatively affecting the local ecosystem. Their arrival has raised concerns about the survival of native bees and the ecological balance of affected areas.
Jersey has been one of the first locations in the UK to grapple with the issue of Asian Hornets. Local experts have developed an innovative approach to controlling this threat. It involves capturing Asian hornets, marking and releasing captured specimens, and then monitoring their flight paths back to the nests, which can then be destroyed. This methodology has proven effective in containing the spread of Asian Hornets and in identifying and destroying their nests. The battle against Asian Hornets requires a coordinated effort. Beekeepers from different parts of the UK, including members of the London Beekeepers’ Association and the Isle of Wight Beekeeping Association, are traveling to Jersey to learn best control practices. It is essential for beekeepers from across the country to come together in this fight to protect native bees and the ecosystem.
While Asian Hornets have been present in Jersey since 2016, their arrival in other parts of the UK is an increasing concern. Approximately 18-20 nests have been located in England, and the Isle of Wight is worried that it’s only a matter of time before they arrive there as well. Alderney has also recorded numerous sightings of Asian hornets, with increasingly large nests discovered recently.
Notably, Alderney recently found record-sized Asian hornet nests, with the latest nest measuring a substantial 58 centimeters from top to bottom. The organizers of the Alderney Asian Hornet Group believe it’s a record and emphasize the importance of closely monitoring the spread of this invasive species.
Beekeepers and experts are urging the public to report any sightings of Asian hornet nests to the relevant authorities. This collaboration is crucial for protecting native bees and local ecosystems from the threat of Asian Hornets.
In conclusion, the battle against Asian Hornets has become a priority in the UK, with beekeepers dedicating themselves to learning and applying new control strategies to protect native bees and the natural environment. Collaboration among beekeepers and the commitment of the public are vital to address this growing challenge and ensure the survival of bees and biodiversity.