Is it an Asian hornet?

• Asian hornet has yellow legs at the ends (hence it is often referred to as the “yellow-legged hornet”). European hornet has brown legs at the ends.

• Asian hornet’s head is dark from above, yellow from the front. European hornet’s head is yellow from above and from the  front.

• Asian hornet has dark coloured antennae. European hornet has yellow antennae.

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• Asian hornet has dark brown/black abdomen with a yellow/orange band on 4th segment. European hornet has a yellow abdomen marked with brown on the upper part, not banded.

© Photograph courtesy of Eric Darrouzet, University of Tours, France

European hornet (left), Asian hornet (right)

Asian hornet nests

Do not attempt to interfere with a suspected Asian hornet’s nest.
Use Contact Form.
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​The National Bee Unit will not investigate until the Asian hornet has been positively identified, either through photographic evidence or a sample.

​Please be aware that Asian hornets have a nasty sting and you should not put yourself or anybody else at risk.