People on the Isle of Man are being urged to be vigilant against Asian hornets.

The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has launched a new action plan to tackle the threat posed by the creature.

They are an aggressive predator of honeybees and other invertebrates – however they pose no greater risk to humans than a bee.

Dr Richard Selman is a Senior Biodiversity Officer – he says: "Raising awareness is the first step in building a defence against colonisation by the Asian hornet in the Isle of Man. 

"We ask that the public and those interested in beekeeping in particular are vigilant and on their guard.

"The Asian hornet is not easily confused with any other species. It has a dark brown or black velvety body with a dark abdomen and yellow tipped legs and is smaller than the native European hornet. 

"Anyone who has any concerns or suspects they may have spotted an Asian hornet should contact DEFA on 685835 or ecopolicy@gov.im or Harry Owens, the bee inspector, on harryowens@manx.net. 

"We can then put in place steps to quickly assess and, if necessary, address the situation.

"As well as the environmental impact this species poses, there could be economic consequences. 

"Isle of Man grown and produced food and drink is a growth area for the Island’s economy and so I hope the community can work together to safeguard the Island from this threat.”

The Asian hornet is native to parts of eastern Asia and was accidently introduced to south-west France in 2004.

It was found in the UK in 2016 and 2017 – with a sighting in Greater Manchester last month.