Asian or Yellow-Legged hornet (Vespa velutina)

The Asian hornet is smaller than our native hornet and is a predator of honey bees. Adult workers measure from 25mm in length and queens can be as large as 30mm. The abdomen is mostly black except for the fourth abdominal segment which is a yellow band located towards the rear. It has characteristic yellow legs – it is often called the yellow legged hornet – and its face is orange with two brownish red compound eyes. Technically it is not legally notifiable; however, please report sightings to the GB Non-native species secretariat.

How to spot an Asian hornet:

  • has a dark brown or black velvety body

  • has a yellow or orange band on fourth segment of abdomen

  • has yellow tipped legs

  • is smaller than the native European hornet

  • is not active at night.

Comparison chart of Asian Hornet, European Hornet, Wasps, and Honey Bee with size measurements in centimeters. The Asian Hornet Vespa velutina is shown on the left, followed by the European Hornet Vespa crabro in the middle, then a smaller wasp Vesula vulgaris, and a Honey Bee Apis mellifera on the right. The chart is published by the Animal & Plant Health Agency, with download links for the Google Play and App Store, and a call to report via a shortened URL.
Close-up of a wasp on a tree branch with small buds.