First published: 26/08/2025 -
Last updated: 26/08/2025 -
Verified by our Editorial Panel
Help stop the spread of the Yellow-Legged Hornet into Wales
What is the Yellow-Legged Hornet?
The yellow-legged hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax), also called the Asian hornet, is a type of insect that is not native to the UK. It comes from Asia and was first seen in France in 2004. Since then, it has been found in many European countries like Spain, Belgium, Portugal, Italy, Switzerland and Germany. Since 2016, it has been sighted in England and action has been taken to find and destroy its nests.
This hornet is bad news. It eats honey bees and other insects that help flowers grow and crops produce food. That’s why we need to stop it from establishing in Wales.
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Why should we care in Wales?
So far, there have been no confirmed sightings in Wales, but the hornet has been found just across the border in places like Shropshire and Cheshire. If we don’t spot it early, it could spread quickly and be hard to get rid of.
Wales has lots of countryside and fewer people in some areas, so we really need everyone to help by keeping an eye out.
How to spot a Yellow-Legged Hornet
These hornets are active from February to November, but you’re most likely to see them from July onwards. They like:
Flowering plants (especially ivy in autumn)
Beehives
Rotting fruit like fallen apples
They are not usually aggressive, but they can sting if they feel their nest is in danger. So never go near a nest.
Some of our native insects look similar to yellow-legged hornet, so it’s important to learn how to tell them apart. You can check out this easy guide:
👉 Asian Hornet Identification Guide (PDF)
How to report a Hornet
If you think you’ve seen a yellow-legged hornet, please report it! It is best to use:
The Asian Hornet Watch App (free for Android and iPhone)
The online form on the BeeBase website
Make sure to include a photo and the location of your sighting.
Let’s work together
We need your help to protect bees and nature in Wales. By learning what the yellow-legged hornet looks like and reporting any sightings, you’re helping stop this invasive insect from spreading.
For more information, visit the National Bee Unit’s Yellow-Legged Hornet page.
