Experts Warn of Record Surge in Asian Hornet Population in 2026
Urgent 'stay vigilant' warning as killer Asian hornets to explode in 'worst ever' year
Image: Dailystar Co Uk
The Asian Hornet population in the UK is expected to reach unprecedented levels in 2026, with experts predicting over 1,000 sightings this year alone. The hornets, known for their aggressive behavior and threat to bee populations, are spreading rapidly across the country, prompting urgent calls for public vigilance and reporting of sightings.
- 01In 2025, there were 544 confirmed sightings of Asian Hornets in the UK, a significant increase from previous years.
- 02Each hornet nest can produce up to 350 new queens, contributing to rapid population growth.
- 03Experts predict that the warm weather will accelerate hornet activity, leading to nearly double the sightings in 2026 compared to 2025.
- 04Asian Hornets can decimate bee populations, killing thousands of bees within hours, posing a threat to local ecosystems.
- 05Public vigilance is crucial; individuals are encouraged to report sightings via the Asian Hornet Watch app.
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The Asian Hornet population in the UK is poised for a dramatic surge, with experts forecasting 2026 to be the worst year yet for these invasive pests. Currently, queen hornets are establishing primary nests, which can expand into colonies capable of producing hundreds of new queens. The number of confirmed sightings has skyrocketed from just three in 2016 to 544 in 2025, with projections suggesting that sightings could exceed 1,000 in 2026. This alarming trend is attributed to favorable weather conditions, which are expected to enhance hornet activity. The invasive species, first identified in France in 2004, poses a significant threat to local bee populations, capable of wiping out hives in a matter of hours. Experts are urging the public to remain vigilant, report sightings through the Asian Hornet Watch app, and avoid approaching any suspected nests. The urgency of the situation has shifted the focus from eradication to long-term management, as the hornets continue to spread across the UK.
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The rapid increase in Asian Hornet populations threatens local bee populations, which are crucial for pollination and biodiversity.
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