Scientists have discovered that Asian hornets pose an "extra threat" beyond their known attacks on honey bees.
New research has revealed these invasive insects consume over 1,400 different species.
The UK recorded 45 confirmed sightings of yellow-legged hornets last year, with several nests subsequently being found and later destroyed.
The predatory insects can demolish bee hives within hours but experts now warn their ecological impact is far broader.
The UK recorded 45 confirmed sightings of yellow-legged hornets last year
GETTY
A study by the University of Exeter tested Asian hornet samples throughout their active season.
Researchers examined the gut contents of hornet larvae from France, Spain, Jersey and the UK.
While European honey bees were the most common prey, appearing in all sampled nests, the hornets' diet proved surprisingly diverse.
The invasive predators also consumed wasps, flies, beetles, butterflies, moths and spiders.
MORE LIKE THIS:
"Our study provides important additional evidence of the threat posed by Asian hornets as they spread across Europe," explained Dr Peter Kennedy, from Exeter's Environment and Sustainability Institute.
Although honey bees were found in all sampled nests, the research revealed their diet is much broader than previously believed.
Scientists identified 1,449 "operational taxonomic units" in the hornets' guts.
More than half could be identified as specific species, though the exact number remains uncertain.
Although honey bees were found in all sampled nests, the research revealed their diet is much broader than previously believed
GETTY
"Asian hornets are known to prey on honey bees, but until now the full range of their diet hasn't been tested," said Siffreya Pedersen, lead author on the study.
"The diet varied strongly over the seasons and between regions, showing that they are highly flexible predators."
The research team collected samples from multiple European locations to analyse the hornets' feeding habits.
Asian hornets have distinctive yellow legs and an orange head and are not typically aggressive unless they perceive their nest is under threat.
When threatened, these hornets can charge in groups and their stings can potentially be deadly.
