Asian hornet sting risk rising as nests increase

Asian hornets are becoming a growing public safety threat in Jersey, with officials warning that the likelihood of serious stings, including life-threatening reactions, is expected to rise.

The first Asian hornets in the Channel Islands were reported in Jersey in August 2016. They arrived in Guernsey seven months later.

The non-native invasive species is a predator of other insects, including honeybees, butterflies and beetles but its sting has also led to a number of hospital admissions.

Mary Le Hegarat, Minister for Environment, Agriculture and Fisheries, said more than 800 hornet nests had been identified in Jersey so far this year, a 50% increase compared with the same point in 2025.

Answering a States Assembly question, Le Hegarat said most nests had been successfully destroyed, but warned the challenge was no longer solely about managing an invasive species.

The minister said: "Asian Hornets are increasingly becoming a broader public safety issue requiring a coordinated response across government, public services, landowners, businesses, community organisations and volunteers."

Government figures show 50 sting incidents were recorded in 2025, including one confirmed anaphylactic reaction and a number of hospital attendances.

Officials forecast about 1,000 nests could be found in Jersey during 2026, with the island potentially able to support as many as 2,000 in future. They warned "the likelihood of serious sting incidents, including life-threatening reactions, is expected to increase".

Most incidents happened when people accidentally disturbed nests, although officials also recorded several near misses involving members of the public, contractors and children.

The States is expected to spend about £90,000 tackling Asian hornets this year, up from about £74,000 in 2025 and £71,000 in 2024. The money covers nest destruction, equipment and the staff time needed to coordinate the island's response.

The government said complete eradication had never been considered realistic because of established populations in Jersey and nearby parts of France. Instead, efforts are focused on surveillance, nest destruction and reducing the impact on biodiversity, businesses and public safety.

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