How to keep Asian hornets out of your home this summer

Asian hornets are an invasive species that prey on honeybees and other vital pollinators – creatures essential to the health of our ecosystems.

While they pose little direct risk to people, their presence in the UK is a growing concern.

Confirmed sightings remain relatively low overall, but they're increasing. The Department for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) reported the destruction of 96 nests in 2023 and 2024.

If you’re not sure what Asian hornets look like, or what to do if you think you’ve seen one, we’ve spoken to an expert from Rentokil Pest Control for tips and advice on how to help keep your home hornet-free.

What is an Asian hornet?

Asian hornets are a non-native species in the UK. While they resemble European hornets, they're smaller, with yellow-tipped legs and mainly black bodies.

'Their most distinctive feature is their yellow-tipped legs, which help distinguish them from European hornets’ brown-tipped legs,' said Paul Blackhurst, head of technical academy at Rentokil Pest Control.

'European hornets are also generally larger and have a predominantly yellow and brown abdomen, whereas Asian hornets have darker colouring with a thin yellow band on the abdomen.'

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Are Asian hornets dangerous?

Although Asian hornets threaten wildlife in the UK by preying on bees and other pollinators, they don't generally pose a risk to humans.

Asian hornets are not typically aggressive towards people and do not generally pose a greater risk to human health than the UK’s native European hornet,' said Paul.

'However, like other hornets, they can sting repeatedly and may become defensive if they feel their nest is under threat. Anyone who encounters a suspected Asian hornet should keep their distance and avoid disturbing it.'

If you have an allergy to wasp or hornet stings and think you've been stung, seek urgent medical advice.

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What should you do if you see an Asian hornet?

Asian hornets can cause serious harm to the environment by preying on bees and other pollinators to feed the larvae inside the colony, so it’s important to report any sightings.

If you think you’ve seen an Asian hornet, don’t try to disturb or remove a nest yourself.

You can submit sightings using the free Asian Hornet Watch app (available on Android or iOS) or via the government’s online reporting form, managed by the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH).

All reports help the National Bee Unit, a specialist government team, respond quickly and prevent further spread.

How to prevent Asian hornets from getting into your home

Asian hornets often build their nests in sheltered spots such as roof spaces, air vents and around window frames, so it's important to check your property for potential access points.

Check trees, bushes, sheds and even less obvious areas such as chicken coops, where nests might be hidden.

To reduce the chances of attracting hornets:

• Keep bins closed and make sure bin bags are tied. We've tested to find the best bin bags to prevent spills that might attract pests.
• Cover food and sugary drinks during summer, as the hornets are drawn to sweet smells. Our experts have outlined the best food storage tips.
• Pet owners should clear away food bowls promptly, especially if they contain meat residue.

Get vent covers to block access points and seal any gaps around window frames or roof eaves.

'If a hornet does enter your home, stay calm, keep your distance and, if possible, open a window or door to give it a clear route back outside. Avoid swatting or trying to catch it, as this could provoke it to sting,' said Paul.

'Vigilance is particularly important in southern England, Wales and around major ports, where sightings are most likely. Asian hornets are generally active between April and November, with activity peaking in August and September, so taking extra care during these months can be particularly helpful.'

What should you do if you find an Asian hornet nest?

Asian hornets make round – or pear-shaped – papery nests, often the size of a football or larger.

They're made from brown or grey papier-mâché-like material and typically have a small entrance hole on the side, which can help distinguish them from other wasp or hornet nests.

If you find an Asian hornet nest:

• Take a photo (if it’s safe to do so) and report it via the Asian Hornet Watch app or official government website.
• Do not try to remove or destroy it yourself as hornets can become aggressive if threatened.

Once you report an Asian hornet nest, the National Bee Unit will carry out a field investigation to locate, destroy and remove any nests, and send samples to a lab for confirmation.

If it turns out you're dealing with another type of wasp or hornet infestation, then you should contact a professional pest controller.

'Trying to deal with an established nest yourself could increase your risk of being stung,' said Paul. 'A pest controller can identify what you’re dealing with, assess the nest and recommend the safest way to treat it.'

Should you be worried about Asian hornets?

Asian hornets aren’t widespread in the UK, and confirmed sightings are still rare. But they do pose a real threat to pollinators, and that’s why it’s worth knowing what to look out for.

The risk to people is low, but if you do spot one, acting quickly can help stop them from becoming established.

Kate Wilson, head of the National Bee Unit, said: 'Yellow-legged hornets cause significant damage to native pollinators, including our much-loved honeybees. That’s why [we take] swift action to stamp out the threat posed by yellow-legged hornets, all as part of ongoing monitoring and surveillance work to protect our pollinators.

'We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue to report any potential sightings using the Asian Hornet Watch app and online.'

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