Asian hornets: New threat

ASIAN hornets have started building nests at ground level in Jersey – posing a new threat.

An Asian hornets’ nest is located in a field in an area of deep brambles, the first time that a nest has been found near the ground.

Until recently the invasive insects, which have become established in the island after arriving from the continent last year, have created nests high up in trees or on the side of properties.

Now a nest has been found at ground level in brambles in Rue de Samarès. Following the discovery, Jersey islanders are being warned to be extra vigilant when clearing brambles or picking blackberries, as Asian hornets will swarm if disturbed.

Tim du Feu, head of environmental protection for the Environment Department and president of the Jersey Beekeepers’ Association, said it was the first time a nest had been found low to the ground.

And he warned anyone who might come into contact with brambles, for example if they are clearing an area, to take the time to stop and see if there are any hornets around first.

On Wednesday, pest controllers wearing extra-thick beekeeping suits pumped insecticide into the nest, which was due to be removed yesterday.

Full story in Friday's Guernsey Press