Overview

• As of June 24, the National Bee Unit has confirmed 24 Asian hornet sightings, a sharp increase compared to 20 at this point in 2024 and four in 2023.
• A total of 39 additional reports have been deemed credible and are awaiting laboratory verification.
• Authorities have destroyed nine hornet nests so far in 2025, following 24 removals in 2024 and a record 72 nests eradicated in 2023.
• Most confirmed sightings have clustered in Kent, East Sussex and Hampshire, with one unconfirmed report emerging from County Durham.
• The British Beekeepers Association warns that a single hornet can kill up to 90 bees per day and urges the public to report sightings through the Asian Hornet Watch app and avoid disturbing nests.