The influence of climate on the invasion of the Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) to Guernsey, Channel Islands: citizen science and misidentified aliens

ORCID

Abstract

Vespa velutina is an Asian bee-hawking hornet that has rapidly colonised continental Europe since its accidental introduction in 2004. Its range continues to expand with the first confirmed sightings in Guernsey in 2017. This study aimed to analyse local weather variables over three years to assess their importance for predicting Asian hornet occurrences. We also investigated citizen science reporting to ascertain which species the public most commonly misidentify as Asian hornets. Weather analysis using zero-inflated negative binomial regression showed that Asian hornet observations are more likely in warmer weather (air temperature > 12 °C). The year 2019 significantly affected the likelihood of zero counts, showing interannual variability in Asian hornet occurrences. Wind variables, air pressure, sunshine, rain and month were unimportant in predicting the number of occurrences. Misidentifications of Asian hornets were common, especially Vespula vulgaris and Vespa crabro. Some unexpected records were submitted, demonstrating a lack of entomological knowledge among the public. Implications for conservation To better utilize public effort in monitoring schemes, educational materials should not only focus on how to distinguish Asian hornets from social wasps, bees and hoverflies, but also large and strikingly patterned Lepidoptera and Coleoptera. Citizen science recording schemes and monitoring of uninvaded regions should coincide with queen and worker activity in warm weather.

Publication Date

2024-11-22

Publication Title

Journal of Insect Conservation

Volume

29

Issue

1

ISSN

1366-638X

Embargo Period

2025-11-22

Keywords

Asian hornets, Citizen science, Climate, Honey bees, Invasive species

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10.1007/s10841-024-00637-5" data-hide-no-mentions="true">

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