In the December 2025 Bee Health Advisory Forum, Defra confirmed that they will not ask APHA’s National Bee Unit to carry out Spring trapping activity for yellow-legged hornet (YLH) in 2026. This decision has been taken in response to the high number and geographic spread of later season nest finds during 2025. Finding and destroying nests is considered to be the most effective control mechanism. Spring trapping involves looking for a small number of queen hornets in large area and is not the best way to achieve effective control. Therefore, a government-led systematic trapping programme will not be carried out in 2026.
We are working with Fera Science Limited to review the data from 2025 and supply mapping information of areas we consider to be higher risk due to the time of year nests were located and destroyed, to help inform local trapping initiatives. This information is not expected to be available until the new year. Defra remain committed to combatting this threat, and whilst there is no strong evidence of establishment, continue to support an eradication policy. APHA’s National Bee Unit stand ready to respond to reports of YLHs during 2026.
Please report sightings of Yellow-legged hornets (YLH), also known as Asian hornets, on this online form or download the free Asian hornet Watch app for Apple devices or android devices.