A KILLER Asian hornet invasion could quickly get out of control if it were to hit Herefordshire, experts have warned.

Asian hornets are a threat to our bees and other pollinators, says a spokesperson for the Herefordshire Beekeepers Association, adding that it only takes one to find its way here and not be spotted and within a year they will be beyond control. 

This warning comes as a number of Asian hornets have recently been spotted along coastal areas of the UK, with the insects being accidentally brought into the country by merchants and holiday-makers from European nations that have already been invaded. 

With Herefordshire being home to over twenty species of bees and wasps and having a substantial honey industry, an influx of Asian hornets would be catastrophic not only for the counties wildlife but also for the local economy.

The Asian hornet is naturally predatory towards honeybees, able to eat 300 bees in a day. 

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The British Beekeepers Association says that the creatures have a habit of hovering outside hives, stopping bees from collecting nectar to feed themselves. This tactic, known as hawking, can decimate ecosystems as natural pollenation is greatly reduced.

Asian Hornets can be identified by their black colouration with an orange along the fourth segment of abdomen, said the BBKA. 

If you encounter an Asian hornet you should attempt to photograph it for evidence, but do not approach it if there is a nest nearby as there is a risk that you could cause a swarm to attack if they feel threatened. Any sightings must be reported so that experts can take action to prevent further damage.

Hornet activity can be reported via the Asian Hornet Watch app or by emailing alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk