The Asian Hornet is still here.

Yes, almost certainly it is still here in Dorset - the problem is we don't know where.

What we do know is that:

• The NBU dealt with over 70 Asian Hornet nests in 2023
• One nest of Asian Hornet can eat 12kg of flying insects.
• The Asian Hornet is having a negative affecting on insect eating birds.
• The best way to deal with Asian Hornets is to be plan ahead.

These are just some of the facts I have learned in the past month.

This is a good time to find out how we can prepare for the Asian Hornet invasion.

• Asian Hornet Awareness Evening at the Colliton Club tonight the 29th November.

There will be a talk by Mark White on the latest developments with contributions from several members of Dorchester and Weymouth Beekeepers who were called to help with the two nests found on Portland.

• 2nd South West Beekeepers Forum Asian Hornet Conference.
  • The list of speakers is on the web and is impressive including
    • Megan Seymour - from the NBU
    • Alistair Christie - from Jersey where they have loads of experience
    • Dr. Peter Kennedy - from Exeter University
    • Dr. Sandra Rojas Nossa- on the impact of Asian Hornet on biodiversity
    • Quentin Rome - on the impact of Asian Hornet in France
    • Bob Hogge - on the impact of Asian Hornet on beekeepers.
  • The conference is in Bridgwater TA6 6LQ
  • The cost to participate in the workshops is £10
  • The date of the event is the 6th January 2024
  • Full details are here.

Tickets are selling well and with just 300 places available I suggest booking early.