Hornet sightings 'earlier than any other year'

Queen Asian hornets have been found "earlier than ever", as Guernsey begins its spring push to limit their numbers.

One queen was spotted at Le Grande Pre Nature reserve, while another was caught in a trap in Herm.

Almost 260 traps have been delivered to volunteers as part of the Spring Queening project.

The States of Guernsey has asked islanders to "remain vigilant and report any sightings of Asian hornets".

The project, now in its eighth year, aims to intercept queen Asian hornets as they "emerge from hibernation and forage for nectar".

During this time, they will travel up to 1km (1,000 yards) before building a nest.

The 260 traps, that have been handed out to volunteers, are designed to "attract and capture" the queens before that happens.

Julia Henney, senior natural environment officer said the traps, which are placed at 500m (1640ft) intervals, are the "first line of defence to prevent Asian hornets establishing".

She described 2026 as "a particularly critical year", as "queen hornets have been caught earlier than any other year".

It follows a record-breaking 2025 that saw 69 queens caught and five primary nests destroyed between April and June.

Islanders have also been encouraged to "remain vigilant, report any sightings and try and prevent any hornets found at home from escaping".

Sightings can be reported to the Asian Hornet Team by calling or WhatsApp to 07839 197082, or by sending an email to asianhornet@gov.gg with a photo attached where possible.

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