Hornets have been seen targeting apiaries. If you see a colony where the bees are congregating at the entrance seemingly without purpose with reduced foraging flights, it’s worth spending some time observing. The hornets ‘just appear’, flying around the colonies low to the ground, often leaving then coming back before targeting the bees. Only one or two colonies may be showing this entrance behaviour amongst a number of others. This behaviour can take place when the hornets are just scouting the apiary, or if they have been actively hawking there. There are other reasons this could be happening, but at this time of year, and with nests being found in the North some extra vigilance would be prudent. The ivy will be out now/soon. Hornets love ivy nectar and the masses of insects it attracts, so also worth keeping an eye on!
This is a simple but useful exercise you should undertake now. We need to find all the hornet that might be here. By working together we support our bees and will help eradicate this invasive species from the North.
If you haven’t already downloaded the Asian Hornet Watch App for Android or iOS, now would be a really good time!
Ryedale Beekeepers Association
For those that live in Ryedale and keep, or are interested in, bees…
