Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina)

OTHER NAMES: Yellow-legged Hornet, Asian Predatory Wasp
Latin Etymology: Vespa ("wasp") velutina ("velvety")

Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina) in Paris, France - July 2026

Featured Subspecies: ?
Weight: ?  /  Length: 20-30mm  /  Wingspan: ?
NO UK STATUS / IUCN Red List: Not Yet Evaluated 

Originally from South East Asia, in a range that extends from Afghanistan to Timor and North to Taiwan and China. They have become established in Western Europe, and can be dangerous if a swarm feels it is under attack as multiple stings have the potential to cause anaphylactic shock. They are a concern in apiculture as they will target honey bee species, and the Western Honey Bee has not evolved with it as a predator.
 
Related Species: 
Order: Hymenoptera
Family: Vespidae
Genus: Vespa
SUBSPECIES: ?
 
- Sighting Locations -

FRANCE 
A widespread non-native species.
- PARIS 2026 TRIP: A single individual seen.

Further Notes: BirdForum Opus, IUCN Red List, RSPB, Wikipedia, Xeno-canto