Gardeners warned to be wary of Asian hornet nests

Gardeners warned to be wary of Asian hornet nests

Despite the reduced number of Asian hornet nests in the Island – with the count currently standing at 34 compared to 49 this time last year – Jersey’s Asian hornet co-ordinator Alastair Christie has said that the invasive insects still pose a risk to people working outdoors.

Nests have been found in bramble patches as well as in the ground and under shrubbery in locations including Howard Davis Park, St Clement and St Brelade, and Mr Christie advised Islanders to check the area before starting work to avoid accidentally disturbing one.

He said: ‘While individual hornets are not generally a risk, there is a real danger of being stung if a nest is disturbed. Nests low down in hedges, in the ground and in blackberry patches present the greatest risk of being disturbed and it is well known that Asian hornets may defend their nest area. A disturbed nest may have serious consequences so I would urge people to be vigilant, cautious and report any possible sightings of Asian hornets.

‘Last year, a farmer carrying out the branchage was stung six times after his hedge cutter struck a nest in the ground. Fortunately, the farmer only experienced mild swelling from the stings. However, for a small percentage of people – particularly if they are allergic to wasp, bee and hornet stings – an Asian hornet sting may have far more serious consequences.’

However, Mr Christie believes that the reduced number of nests shows that the work being carried out by the Jersey Asian Hornet Group is proving to be effective, with the population remaining at a manageable level.

‘The reduction in nest numbers is encouraging but we will not know the true picture until later on in the year,’ said Mr Christie. ‘There is no room for complacency.

‘The Jersey Asian Hornet Group volunteers are doing an incredible job of following up reported sightings, setting baits, and tracking the hornets back to their nests.’

Mr Christie suspects that without the work of the volunteer group, Jersey could have seen over 1,000 nests by now.

Anyone wishing to report an Asian hornet sighting can do so by emailing asianhornet@gov.je, attaching a photo if possible. Islanders can also call Mr Christie on 441633 or download the free Asian Hornet Watch App.

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