Guidance for Beekeepers
Preparation – Contact your neighbour beekeepers (including non-members) and discuss plans for a local sighting of an Asian Hornet, using this guidance where appropriate
Have a laminated copy of the Non-Native Species Secretariat (NNSS) Asian Hornet Alert attached to underside of one of your hive’s roof
Action to be taken on Sighting of Asian Hornet
- Report to the NNSS – they will take no further action until evidence (Asian Hornet or Photograph) of the Asian Hornet is produced. (alertnonnative@ceh.ac.uk) Also report to the DBKA General Secretary
- Report to Branch Point of Contact for Asian Hornet sighting (& local Bee Inspector)
- Be part of/lead a surveillance team from Branch members.
- Be aware of how to recognise Asian Hornet – use Asian Hornet Watch APP (http://www.nonnativespecies.org/home/index.cfm)
- Ensure you have suitable equipment with you – see Branch Guidance
- Work in pairs
- Ensure records are kept of sightings and other relevant information
- Do not release details of location or personal details – no press disclosure
- Be sensitive to land ownership & general public
- Act with caution & care
- Take video recordings and obtain sample where possible
- Report & send evidence to the National Bee Unit (NBU) (http://www.nationalbeeunit.com/index.cfm?pageid=117)
- Confirm to the DBKA General Secretary
- If appropriate start noting flight lines.
17th January 2018
