A nest of invasive Asian hornets has been found for the first time in Wales, prompting a warning from the Welsh government.
The Asian hornet, also known as the yellow-legged hornet, is an invasive species originating from east Asia that was first recorded in Europe in 2004.
The insect was first spotted in the UK a decade ago and is often found in the south of England during the summer months, but this is the first confirmed discovery in Wales.
A predator of pollinators that can eat up to 50 honeybees a day, the Asian hornet is not generally aggressive and poses no greater risk to humans than native hornets, but it may sting if provoked.
The nest, found near Wrexham in north Wales, was dead, but the discovery has resulted in calls from the Welsh government for people to remain “vigilant” and to report any suspected sightings.
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The deputy first minister of Wales, Huw Irranca-Davies, said: “The National Bee Unit has years of experience tracking and locating yellow-legged hornets so their expertise will be invaluable in helping us take action against the insect in Wales.
“I’d like to thank beekeepers and members of the public who I know remain alert and continue to report suspected sightings.
“We need everyone to become familiar with what yellow-legged hornets look like.
“As the weather warms up in the spring and especially on into the summer, please continue to be vigilant.”
