Asian Hornet
Vespa velutina nigrithorax
- Group
- Hornet
- Size
- 17–24 mm
- Risk
- Moderate danger
- Protection status
- Notifiable species
- Identifying features
-
- Almost entirely black in colour
- Broad orange band at the tip of the abdomen, fine yellow band on the first segment
- Bright yellow leg tips
- Orange front of the head
- Secondary nests built high up in tree crowns in summer (often over 10 m), spherical to pear-shaped with a side entrance
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina nigrithorax) is an invasive, non-native species that is spreading steadily in Switzerland and poses a serious threat to native honey bee colonies.
How to identify it
- Colouring: almost entirely black, with a broad orange band at the tip of the abdomen and a fine yellow band on the first segment
- Legs: strikingly bright yellow leg tips
- Head: orange front
- Nest: secondary nests are often built very high up (over 10 m) in tree crowns during the summer, spherical to pear-shaped with a side entrance
Risk
Moderate for people, but a considerable threat to honey bees and to biodiversity, as the Asian hornet deliberately preys on bee colonies.
Protection status in Switzerland
As an invasive non-native species, the Asian hornet is subject to a mandatory reporting duty. Sightings and nests must be reported immediately via www.asiatischehornisse.ch.
What to do if you find a nest
Do not attempt to deal with the nest or the insects yourself — report them first via www.asiatischehornisse.ch. We are happy to help you with identification and with the next steps.