People who live in homes with a garden have been hit with an urgent warning as potentially deadly insects have been spotted in the UK.
There have been a number of sightings of Asian hornets have been reported in Northumberland, Dorset and Kent already this month, and the British Pest Control Association (BPCA) is urging people to "seek help immediately" if they see an unusual insect in their gardens.
A sting from an Asian hornet will be painful and may result in anaphylaxis, which can be life-threatening, but is treatable if action is taken quickly.
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Asian hornets also pose a threat to British bees and sightings should be immediately reported to the Non-native Species Secretariat.
Natalie Bungay, BPCA Technical Manager, told the ECHO: "If you’re not sure what that stripy flying insect buzzing around your garden is, get in touch with a BPCA member who will have the technical knowledge to identify and deal with any infestation.”
Slightly smaller than native European hornets, Asian hornets are black or dark brown with a distinctive yellow band at the rear, bright yellow tips to the legs, a yellow ‘belt’ at the waist and a black head with an orange or yellow face. European hornets have markings similar to a wasp on their abdomen, with dark-coloured legs.
Natalie added: "Anyone who has concerns about hornet activity, should contact a pest professional such as a BPCA member, who will have the technical knowledge to spot the difference between an Asian hornet and a native insect."
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