An Asian hornet has been spotted hibernating in Jersey, which has raised new fears over their significant threat to the UK's wildlife – especially seeing as they feed on bees, which are already in decline in the UK.
This is the first time the Asian hornet has been seen in the UK this year, according to the BBC, but experts say that warm spring weather may cause more to emerge much earlier than expected.
'The Asian hornet has been spotted in a few places in the UK [previously] and, given its spread through Europe, it does seem likely that it’s here to stay,' explains Professor Adam Hart, an entomologist from the University of Gloucestershire to the HuffPost UK. 'But this is not something that should alarm the public.'
Locals are being warned to keep an eye open for any other sightings and to report them to the Non Native Species Secretariat right away.
What we know about the Asian hornet
Since first arriving in France back in 2004, Asian hornets have spread rapidly across Europe. The main concern about the hornets is that they are a significant predator of bees as they feed by biting off their heads and then eating the rest. The new sighting has raised fears among the RSPB as they are worried about the impacts on beekeepers if they spread across the UK.
Where might we see them?
The Asian hornet is slightly smaller and darker than other hornets, making it easier to spot. You are most likely to see them close to beekeeper's hives, as well as in suburban areas in Wales and in the South of England. They may also be spotted close to major ports.
What to do if you spot one
The Asian hornet will sting if it feels threatened, so keep your distance if you spot a nest. It has been advised by the Non Native Species Secretariat to report any sightings and not to provoke or prod an active nest. Even if you are unsure whether it is an Asian hornet, they recommend reporting it anyway to keep yourself safe.