Asian Hornets: How can you protect your home and garden from pests this summertime?

National World - LocalTV

How can you spot an Asian Hornet?

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00:00Last year saw a rise in sightings of the invasive Asian hornet across the UK.

00:07And despite hopes that cold winter temperatures would help eradicate the species, experts

00:13now say the hornets appear to have survived, raising concerns that they may now be here

00:19to stay.

00:20That means gardeners and homeowners alike may need to take regular precautions in order

00:27to protect outdoor spaces and support native wildlife, including vital pollinators like

00:34honeybees.

00:36Asian hornets pose a particular threat to bees.

00:38A single hornet can kill up to 50 in just one day.

00:43Widespread infestations have already caused significant damage to honeybee populations

00:48across Europe.

00:49And while they're not typically aggressive to humans, their sting can be painful and

00:54dangerous for anyone with an allergy.

00:58Tradesperson platform MyBuilder.com has actually issued practical advice on how to make gardens

01:04and homes less inviting to these pests and others.

01:09Key steps include removing food sources.

01:12Asian hornets are attracted to fruit, pet food, scraps left for wildlife and bird feeders.

01:18Fallen fruit should be cleared away immediately and leftover food brought indoors.

01:23Try managing waste properly.

01:25Seal rubbish bags and keep bins closed.

01:27If possible, move bins further from the house.

01:30Compost bins should also be securely covered.

01:33Even plant deterrents.

01:35Hornets dislike strong-smelling plants like spearmint and lemongrass.

01:40These also help attract pollinators.

01:42Place them near patios and seating areas.

01:45Prevent nesting.

01:46Asian hornets build nests in trees, hedges and even underground.

01:51Trim back overgrown areas.

01:53Pick up dead plant debris and fill in holes in the ground.

01:56But always check local guidelines before trimming trees.

02:01Try sealing entry points.

02:03Cracks in rooflines, soffits and around windows can offer entry into homes.

02:08Use filler to seal these gaps and repaint when dry.

02:11A professional roofer can help with more complex repairs.

02:15Use hornet specific traps also.

02:18Traps made specifically for Asian hornets are recommended as general traps can harm bees

02:23and other beneficial insects.

02:25Hang them in sunny areas at head height and avoid shaded spots.

02:30Nyland Square, leaving a few.

02:31So, you know, I think in 9 to 12.

02:31How do they lay a lot of kids and other animals?

02:32Something in your house, some of the things in the forest.

02:34Coz is the main thing.

02:35How do they lay a lot of kids with a quiet park?

02:35Let's go!

02:37What's their journey?

02:39Let's go!

02:40May have a long time.

02:41A long time.

02:42But they need to be a more balanced project.

02:43I'll have a long time.

02:44Let's go!

02:45You'll have to come ch Latte!

02:46Some of them, and let's do it!

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