Asian Hornets Survive UK Winter, Threatening Local Bees
DNA tests confirm the invasive species' first successful overwintering in Britain, raising alarms for native pollinators.
- Asian hornets have overwintered in the UK for the first time, confirmed by DNA analysis.
- The species poses a significant threat to honey bees and native pollinators, consuming up to 50 bees a day.
- The British Bee Keepers Association is urging the public to report sightings via the Asian Hornet Watch app.
- Experts warn that the UK may be at a tipping point for the hornets becoming established.
- The National Bee Unit destroyed 72 nests in 2023, but sightings continue to rise in 2024.
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