The terrifying insects were first spotted on Guernsey last month, and now one expert has shed light on how murder hornets can attack humans
Deadly ‘murder hornets’ that can chew through human skin and kill with a single sting have hit the British Isles.
The terrifying insects were first spotted on Guernsey last month, and now one expert has shed light on how murder hornets can attack humans.
Speaking to WUSA, entomologist Dr Samuel Ramsey explained: “We’ve been sounding the alarm about this insect for months.
“It is a very large insect. About the size of your thumb. It has these very sharp, large mandibles that are attached to these really big muscles that allow it to chew through a lot of different fabrics.
“They can chew through skin, and they also have a really long stinger.”
Dr Ramsey added that the insects’ poisonous venom can destroy human cells and cause excruciating pain.
Worryingly, murder hornets have been known to kill up to 50 people a year in Japan – the insects’ native country.
Dr Ramsey added: “That is a large number because most stinging insects that we deal with on a regular basis inject a much smaller amount of venom.”
Meanwhile, a man died yesterday after being stung by a killer Asian hornet while trying to deal with a nest near his home in Spain.
The 54-year-old from Villestro, in north-western Spain, was a keen beekeeper and kept his own hive.
Local reports say he had been trying to deal with a wasp nest that was close to the beehive when he was stung.
The man was stung near his eyebrow and the injury proved fatal.
With the insects now in the British Isles, experts are calling on the public to report any sightings.
Nicola Spence, Chief Plant Health Officer, said: “By ensuring we are alerted to possible sightings as early as possible, we can take swift and effective action to stamp out the threat posed by Asian hornets.
“While the Asian hornet poses no greater risk to human health than a bee, we recognise the damage they can cause to honey bee colonies and other beneficial insects.
“Please continue to look out for any Asian hornets and if you think you’ve spotted one, report your sighting through the Asian hornet app or online.”