Lincolnshire Beekeepers Association travels to Jersey to learn more about the fight against Asian hornets

Beekeepers are increasing their efforts to protect native insects from a devastating predator.

Members of the Lincolnshire Beekeepers Association are working with a team in the Channel Islands on plans to eradicate Asian hornets.

The invasive species feasts on honey bees, wasps and other insects and was reported in record numbers last year.

Four Lincolnshire volunteers will visit the Jersey Asian Hornet Action Team this month to learn more about the fight against them.

Lincolnshire coordinator Stewart Maher said: “The experience gained by the volunteers in Jersey will be invaluable in helping us to protect the county’s bees and the public from the Asian yellow legged hornet.”

Efforts to raise public awareness have also been ramped up this week - Asian Hornet Awareness Week - to advise people on how to recognise the predators and what action they should take if they are found.

An Asian hornet has distinct markings with yellow lower legs and a largely black body. They are twice the size of a common wasp. One Asian hornet can kill up to 90 honey bees each day.

Sightings should be reported to the National Bee Unit on 0300 303 0094.

Stewart added: “This is a perilous situation for honeybees and other insect life in Lincolnshire. That’s why we are calling on everyone in the county to be vigilant, be aware of and report Asian hornet sightings.

“We are now extremely concerned that they will spread throughout the UK and Lincolnshire, and if they do it’s vital to eliminate them before they can establish themselves further.”