During a crossing from Santander to Portsmouth in May 2026, an Asian hornet was observed onboard the vessel by a director of Apitura. This sighting provides direct, credible evidence that hornets are capable of surviving long-distance sea journeys by sheltering on vehicles, cargo, or within the structure of the ferry itself.

The 2026 season has already highlighted the continuing spread and growing challenge posed by the Yellow-legged Asian hornet, Vespa velutina, across both Jersey and the wider UK.

VespaLure^® is a new Wasp and Yellow-legged Asian hornet lure. It was developed as a direct response to that challenge. Not as another generic attractant, but as a purpose made field-led solution designed specifically for monitoring hornet presence with precision and responsibility.

The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) remains one of the most serious invasive threats to UK pollinators. While numbers here are still relatively low compared to mainland Europe, the risk is real. Early detection and rapid response are what keep the situation under control.

New Zealand has a long history of keeping unwanted species out. That’s why recent detections of the yellow-legged hornet have caught the attention of biosecurity teams and beekeepers alike. While the insect has not established itself in the wild, its appearance at the border is a reminder of how quickly invasive species can travel.

Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), a highly invasive species with the potential to wreak havoc on the island's delicate ecosystem. In this article, we'll explore the challenges posed by the Asian hornet invasion in Jersey and discuss strategies for containment and management.