A second sighting of the Asian Hornet has been reported in North Somerset.

Earlier in the year this troublesome species was confirmed on the Channel Islands of Jersey and Alderney. Since then the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs has already jumped into action with our first sighting on the British mainland 3 weeks ago, down in Gloucestershire.

A spokesman told the BBC that “Work to identify, destroy and remove any nests is underway and a 3-mile surveillance zone has been set up”.

The first operation undertaken in Gloucestershire was a success following the treatment and destruction of the nest.

What does the Asian Hornet look like?:

• Vespa velutina queens are up to 3 cm in length; workers up to 25 mm (slightly smaller than the native European hornet Vespa crabro)
• Entirely dark brown or black velvety body, bordered with a fine yellow band
• Only one band on the abdomen: 4th abdominal segment almost entirely yellow/orange
• Legs brown with yellow ends
• Head black with an orange-yellow face
• A day flying species which, unlike the European hornet, ceases activity at dusk

These Far eastern pests are no more of a risk to humans than the average bee, however they can have a devastating effect on our precious bumble bees, which is why authorities are so quick to react to their presence.

If you spot one of our unwelcome guests, report it to the following website, along with photo’s if possible: alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk