Garden experts warn deadly Asian hornets could invade UK

While you might be enjoying the delayed summer that much of the UK is experiencing in the form of a heatwave at the minute, you should be aware that Asian hornets will be attracted to your alcohol.

So you’ll need to be extra careful if you’re out soaking up the sun with your favourite beverage.

Gardening experts at GardeningExpress have warned Brits about the insect invasion and shared some things we should all know about Asian hornets.

Asian hornets are attracted to sweet food and drinks (Image: Getty Images)

According to the experts, ten Brits have been attacked by the insect since it was first spotted in the UK in July and with the heatwave in Europe, more are expected to enter the UK.

The insect’s venom can cause a person to go into anaphylactic shock and die within minutes unless they receive medical care.

Asian hornets are particularly attracted to beer so the experts encouraging beer gardens and pub owners to be on high alert.

5 things you should know about Asian hornets

What are they attracted to?

Asian hornets are attracted to bright colours as well as sweet food and drinks, including things like syrups and sugary foods.

Why are they so dangerous?

They have a venomous sting which can cause severe pain and if you were sting and experience an allergic reaction, you might have difficulty breathing and notice swelling.

In severe and extreme cases, they can cause anaphylactic shock and a person could die if they do not receive urgent medical care.

How are Asian hornets a threat to wildlife?

The insect is a threat to our ecosystems but particularly to the honey bee which is our most powerful pollinator.

An Asian hornet can eat around 50 honey bees a day.

What to do if you see an Asian hornet

Try to stay away from an Asian hornet if you see one and avoid aggravating it.

You should then report the sighting via an app called Asian Hornet Watch.

What to do if you’re stung by an Asian hornet

If an Asian hornet stings you, make sure to immediately rinse the area with warm soapy water and apply ice to the sting to slow down the spread of the venom.

While you’re doing this, make sure you get medical attention.

Asian hornets don’t leave behind a stinger so don’t worry about having to pick anything out of your skin.

Chris Bonnett, founder of GardeningExpress, said: “We’re expected to see more and more Asian Hornets enter the country after the recent heatwave across Europe and people need to be aware of what to do if they see this insect.

“It’s important to be aware that these insects love alcohol, particularly beer, champagne and wine, so you may find them at a beer garden or hovering above your pint at a barbecue.

“If you notice one in your drink then just leave your glass alone and make sure you report the sighting. These days you can do this online or on apps and this will allow professionals to track down any nests and deal with them safely.

“We really want everyone to be aware of Asian Hornets and understand what attracts them and what to do if you come near one in order to keep each other safe.”