Asian Hornets Continue to Challenge Jersey’s Control Efforts

Jersey Faces Uphill Battle Against Growing Asian Hornet Threat

Jersey’s Environment Minister has acknowledged that efforts to contain the invasive Asian hornet are becoming increasingly difficult, describing the ongoing struggle as “in some ways, fighting a losing battle.”

Deputy Steve Luce made the remarks after confirming that planned cuts to the Environment Department’s budget are expected to impact the island’s hornet control programme.

Despite a significant rise in sightings and nest discoveries — with 656 nests located so far in 2025 — Luce insisted he remains committed to exploring “new and better ways” to manage the spread.

“Asian hornets are here, and it’s going to be very difficult, almost impossible, to eradicate them,” he said.

Concerns from volunteers

The comments have raised concern among members of the Asian Hornet Group, whose volunteers dedicate hundreds of hours each year to tracking and reporting nests across the island.

John De Carteret, a spokesperson for the group, warned that any reduction in funding could put control efforts at risk.

“Volunteers who have given so much of their time to government are rightly worried that, if funding is reduced, some nests may not be treated,” he said.“We feel it’s vital to maintain — and ideally strengthen — the control programme.”

Between 26 October and 2 November, the group logged 19 new nest reports, highlighting the scale of the challenge facing Jersey.

Funding pressures mount

Luce admitted that the government’s resources are limited, and that the increasing number of nests each year underscores the need for smarter spending.

“We’ve got limited funds and need to think carefully about how we use them,” he said. “But we still have to do enough to keep the situation under control.”

While emphasizing that he is “not giving up” on the programme, Luce said the operation costs “hundreds of thousands of pounds” annually and will require fresh approaches to remain effective.

He also warned that 2026 is expected to be an “extremely challenging year” for both the Regulation and Natural Environment directorates, as reduced income and strict budget limits constrain future plans.

“I’m committed to living within our means,” Luce told the States Assembly, “but with declining income, our options are very limited.”