Asian hornet nest discovered in town park

Saturday 04 July 2020

Two Asian hornet nests have recently been destroyed, including one discovered just feet away from a public pathway in Howard Davis Park.

Alastair Christie, the Asian Hornet Coordinator, said the recent discoveries illustrated the insects’ ability to build their nests almost anywhere.

One of the nests was discovered after the hornets were spotted entering a roof space of a property in St. Martin, under lead flashing.

The other was discovered in a town park, in a bush, almost on the ground and just feet from a public pathway. 

“While most of the early season nests are found in car-ports, lean-tos and sheds this is because the nests in those places are visible. Last week’s finds show that their range of nesting sites is much wider," Mr Christie said.

“The roof nest was spotted by the householders after a couple of hornets were found on their property. On advice, they carried out a visual inspection of the roof and the hornets were seen coming and going from a small hole."

Pictured: The recent discoveries have shown the Asian hornets' ability to build their nests almost anywhere. (David Walker)

"The park nest was found after a few hornets were caught in a monitoring trap nearby and maintenance staff saw hornets entering into the bush. The vigilance of the staff and their quick reporting is to be congratulated," Mr Christie added.

"The nest was then quickly located and safely removed by appropriately protected volunteers, and no one was stung.”

Anyone carrying out garden or outside work is advised to check the area first for insect activity. If they have any concerns, they should report it to the Asian Hornet Co-ordinator.

To ensure that wasp and hornet nests can be addressed now, rather than in summer, islanders are now being urged to do a visual inspection of their eaves, vents and roof as such places are also potential nesting sites for wasps.

If anyone suspects Asian hornets or a nest they should email asianhornet@gov.je or call 441633.