Page 42 - ALG Issue 3 2022

Asian Hornet sightings
Members are encouraged to be vigilant in the southern region as sightings of the Asian Yellow-legged Hornet have been reported in the area.
These insects usually nest high in trees and manmade structures, sometimes closer to the ground. They hunt honey bees, other insects and also feed on fruit and flowers which makes them
a pest, particularly on allotment sites where pollinators, fruit and flowers are a plotholders best friend!
Introduced to France in 2004 where they have spread rapidly, a number of sightings have been recorded in the UK since 2016. This particular species was introduced through soil associated with imported plants, cut flowers, fruit, garden items (furniture, plant pots), freight containers, in vehicles, or in/on untreated timber.
They are active from April-November (peak August/September). Mated queens tend to winter singly or in groups, in lots of places but commonly underneath tree bark in cavities left by beetle larvae, in soil, on ceramic plant
pots – potentially any small, well- insulated refuge.
Eventually they make very large nests in tall trees in urban and rural areas
but avoid pure stands of conifers. The also use manmade structures (garages, sheds etc.) as nesting sites.
They are identifiable by a dark brown or black velvety body, characteristically dark abdomen, and yellow tipped legs. They tend to be smaller than the native European Hornet.
TIP:
Do not disturb an active nest. If you suspect you have found an Asian Hornet, please report it with a photo using these details: www.nonnativespecies.org www.nationalbeeunit.com
Don't forget your
Member Offers
on the NAS website
Your savings, benefits and discounts
www.nsalg.org.uk/join-us/ current-member-discounts/
The NAS are pleased to be able to provide our members with an extensive range of discounts and offers. Special deals have been negotiated on your behalf so that YOU can save money on growing your own fruit and veg on your allotment or garden.
Be sure to print out and distribute to your fellow members or include on your Society website, and spread the word!
SPRING/ SUMMER OFFERS NOW LIVE
42 Allotment and Leisure Gardener