Asian hornet warning as one of the largest ever nests found in UK home
The uncovering of the nest is the latest in a long battle between the Channel Islands and hornets who now pose a threat to the UK mainland.
Authorities have issued a warning about Asian hornets after one of the largest nests ever seen in the UK was found in Jersey.
The nest, measuring 15 inches (40cm) is the largest nest of its kind ever found on the popular channel island.
The nest was found hanging from the ceiling of an abandoned home in St Brelades. Soon after, it was destroyed on August 14.
The discovery of the nest has prompted the authorities to issue a warning about the rising number of hornets in the UK.
According to data, this year will see a record number of hornets' nests uncovered; 171 have been found in Jersey this year alone.
The Asian Hornet coordinator for the Government of Jersey, Alastair Christie, told the Mirror the nest was the biggest they’ve dealt with this year.
He added: “It was in a derelict house, no wind, no rain, out of the cold – beautifully sheltered…a bit of a one-off.”
Mr Christie said the nest they found could have had up to 1,500 hornets inside. He emphasised the need to be vigilant.
He said: “With branchage coming up, anyone cutting back hedges or banks needs to be aware of the risk of disturbing wasp and Asian hornet nests.”
Mr Christie said added that there were challenges to disposing of and destroying the nests.
He said: “Destruction of the nests is logistically challenging. They can be found up trees, on cliff faces, inside roof spaces, or within brambles.
“They are in such varied locations and efficiency and safety have to be prioritised when removing the nests.”
The uncovering of the nest is the latest in a long battle between the Channel Islands and hornets.
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In recent years, local residents have been fighting to stop the hornets from destroying the local population of bees.
Furthermore, residents are also worried that Jersey is being used as a launch pad by hornets to come to the UK.
Some have called for a 'Dad’s Army-style' force to stop the invasive species after sightings in Kent.