Unheard of quantities of Asian hornet findings are raising concerns that the United Kingdom’s bee population will suffer serious ramifications for decades to come. With nests discovered throughout the UK, the invasive hornets are causing mayhem in mainland Europe and pose a threat to establishing a presence in the United Kingdom.
By devouring nearby wasps and bees, the insects damage biodiversity. The warning is timed to the release of an international report on the risks presented by invasive organisms by renowned scientists.
They claim that 60% of extinctions of animals and plants are caused by alien invaders. Living organisms like Japanese knotweed and the fungus that destroys ash trees are examples of alien species. These species come from human activity into regions of the earth where they wouldn’t otherwise exist.
They make up a portion of the five main factors contributing to the decline in biodiversity. Experts say things are only going to get worse. Since 1970, they have quadrupled in price to the global economy. This is amounting to a minimum of 423 billion dollars annually in damage.
One creature that isn’t native to the UK that could establish itself forever in the area is the Asian hornet. In a region where these intruders breed, beekeeper Simon Spratley considers the costs to his hives of bees.
Because these hornets consume bees and destroys their hives, Spratley says they’re wreaking havoc. It took just a few days for the hornets to destroy 10 out of his 17 hives. These insects will establish themselves here and prey on all insects, but primarily honey bees because it is their native food source.
They’ll ultimately ruin or overcomplicate beekeeping for everyone and lessen biodiversity in the Kent region and throughout the rest of England.
Are Asian Hornets Dangerous to Humans?
The Giant Asian Hornet can reach nearly two inches long!
©iStock.com/kojihirano
The non-native Asian hornet may sting painfully, posing a concern to the general public. Very rarely do these hornets sting people. Those with allergies to stinging insects may have a reaction.
It can cause a person to have symptoms like breathing problems, rashes, and inflammation. A sting can occasionally result in an anaphylactic reaction, a potentially fatal allergic reaction that occurs when the airway closes and blood pressure drops.
Although Asian hornets are normally not hostile, they can be fiercely protective of their nests. These insects can also launch mass strikes when they feel like you’re a threat. Avoid approaching or disturbing their nests if possible.
If an Asian hornet stings you, it is crucial that you clean the area carefully with soap and water right once. If you can, put on an ice pack to stop the venom from spreading more.
The photo featured at the top of this post is © KENPEI / CC BY-SA 3.0 – License / Original
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