Asian hornets have overwintered in the UK for the first time

Life

Queen Asian hornets found in East Sussex this year are a genetic match to a 2023 nest, suggesting the invasive species is becoming established in the UK

By Madeleine Cuff

Asian hornets are a threat to native insects in the UK

Eduardo Gonzalez / Alamy

Asian hornets found in East Sussex, UK, this spring are genetically linked to a nest destroyed in the area last year, confirming that the invasive species has overwintered in Britain for the first time.

UK officials have been fighting to prevent the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) from becoming established in the country since the first sighting in 2016.

Asian hornets are smaller than native European hornets (Vespa…

View introductory offers

No commitment, cancel anytime*

Offer ends 2nd of July 2024.

*Cancel anytime within 14 days of payment to receive a refund on unserved issues.

Inclusive of applicable taxes (VAT)

or

Existing subscribers

Sign in to your account

More from New Scientist

Explore the latest news, articles and features

>>> Read full article>>>
Copyright for syndicated content belongs to the linked Source : New Scientist – https://www.newscientist.com/article/2433815-asian-hornets-have-overwintered-in-the-uk-for-the-first-time/?utm_campaign=RSS%7CNSNS&utm_source=NSNS&utm_medium=RSS&utm_content=home