Asian Hornet (Yellow-legged Hornet)
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive species that poses a serious threat to honey bees and other pollinators in the UK. Early detection is vital, and beekeepers play a key role in spotting and reporting sightings. This page is designed to be a practical resource to help you identify Asian hornets and distinguish them from similar species, with clear guidance on what to do if you think you’ve seen one. We also provide links to the relevant UK authorities so you can report sightings quickly and effectively. Together, we can help protect our bees and the wider environment from this destructive predator.
Please report any suspected sightings of this Asian Hornets (Yellow Legged Hornets) immediately with a photo, ideally via the links below:
How do I spot a
Yellow Legged Hornet?
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Size: slightly smaller than the European hornet — workers are around 25 mm, queens up to 30 mm.
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Colour: dark brown/black body with a broad dark abdomen.
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Distinctive band: one yellow/orange band near the tail end of the abdomen.
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Face: orange/yellow face with dark eyes.
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Legs: lower half of the legs are bright yellow (hence “yellow-legged”).
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Wings: darker and slightly smoky in appearance.
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Flight behaviour: often seen hovering in front of hive entrances to catch honey bees.
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Nests: large, round nests often high in trees but also found in sheds, outbuildings, or under eaves.
A ditty to remember
There once was a hornet so sly,
With yellow-tipped legs flashing by.
An orange-faced threat,
One tail band you’ll get,
Report so our black bees don't die!