Asian Hornets in Kent
What to look for, why they matter, and what to do if you spot one.
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive species that poses a serious risk to the UK’s native wildlife—especially honey bees. First confirmed in the UK in 2016, sightings are now increasing, particularly in the southern counties, including Kent, East Sussex, Hampshire and Devon.
Asian hornets are not only aggressive towards other insects, but they’re also skilled hunters of honey bees, often waiting outside hives to pick them off as they return. This behaviour can devastate local bee populations and cause knock-on effects for pollination and crop health.
What Does an Asian Hornet Look Like?
Asian hornets are often confused with the native European hornet, but there are some key differences:
- Body colour: Mostly dark brown or black, with a yellow/orange band near the tail.
- Face: Yellowish-orange.
- Legs: Yellow at the ends—this is a clear giveaway.
- Size: Slightly smaller than European hornets—queens around 3 cm, workers around 2.5 cm.
If you’re unsure, the safest bet is to take a clear photo from a distance and report it—don’t try to approach or disturb the nest.
Why Asian Hornets Are a Problem
- Each nest can produce thousands of hornets, with queens ready to start new colonies the following spring.
- They target honey bees, bumblebees and other native pollinators, reducing local populations.
- They build nests high in trees or in outbuildings and can become aggressive if disturbed.
- Unlike native hornets, they’re much more likely to thrive in built-up and semi-rural areas.
What to Do If You Think You’ve Seen One
- Do not disturb the nest. Asian hornets can defend their nests aggressively.
- Take a photo if you can do so safely.
- Report it immediately via:
- The Asian Hornet Watch app (iOS and Android)
- DEFRA’s online reporting system
- Email: alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk with location, photos, and details.
Quick reporting helps environmental authorities act fast to destroy nests before they spread.
Asian Hornet Nest Removal in Kent
If you find a nest on your property and you’ve been told it’s an Asian hornet, do not attempt to deal with it yourself. We’re happy to assist in working with the relevant authorities or trained specialists who are licensed to handle invasive species.
As a local pest control team covering Kent and surrounding areas, we can:
- Help you confirm if it’s an Asian or European hornet
- Offer advice on what to do next
- Put you in touch with licensed teams if needed
Stay Alert Across Kent
Asian hornet sightings are most common in late summer and early autumn, when nests are at their largest. Areas near the coast, farmland, or fruit crops are especially at risk.
In Kent, confirmed sightings have already been made in Canterbury, Ashford, Folkestone, Dover and parts of the Weald.
Early action and awareness make a real difference. If in doubt—snap a photo, keep your distance, and let someone know.
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Coverage area in Kent for wasp nest removal:
Ashford, Broadstairs, Canterbury, Chatham, Cranbrook, Crayford, Dartford, Deal, Dover, Edenbridge, Erith, Faversham, Folkestone, Gillingham, Gravesend, Herne Bay, Hythe, Lydd, Maidstone, Margate, Orpington, Ramsgate, Rochester, Sandwich, Sevenoaks, Sheerness, Sittingbourne, Southborough, Strood, Swanley, Tenterden, Thanet, Tonbridge, Tunbridge Wells, Westerham, Whitstable.