Asian hornets have been spotted in the New Forest trying to create nests, experts have warned.

Three of the invasive insects, also known as yellow-legged hornets, were confirmed to have been roaming around the region in April, with one attempting to build a nest inside a playhouse in Hythe.

On April 17, the person living in the house was able to catch the hornet in the playhouse, confirm the species and kill it.

A yellow-legged hornet had been seen in Marchwood the week before on April 8, when a member of the public saw one sitting in their rotary washing line.

This caused the National Bee Unit (NBU), an agency of the government's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA), to set traps in the area.

READ MORE: One of UK's biggest Asian hornet nests found in Southampton

A third hornet was caught by an NBU inspector on April 23, with all three sightings being confirmed as "credible" by DEFRA.

The flies can be identified through its brown legs with characteristic yellow tips, its entirely brown or velvety black body and its long, very deep buzz.

There is no strong evidence to suggest that yellow-legged hornets have become established in the UK.

An Asian hornet nest was found and removed from The Old Cemetery near Southampton Common last September.An Asian hornet nest was found and removed from The Old Cemetery near Southampton Common last September. (Image: Alan Baxter) Contingency action is being taken in 2025 to locate and destroy nests following reports of credible Asian hornet sightings.

READ MORE: Invasive Asian hornets becoming 'extra threat' to wildlife

Kate Wilson, head of the Animal & Plant Health Agency’s National Bee Unit, said: “Yellow-legged hornets cause significant damage to native pollinators, including our much-loved honeybees.

“That’s why our National Bee Unit takes swift action to stamp out the threat posed by yellow-legged hornets, all as part of ongoing monitoring and surveillance work to protect our pollinators.

“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and continue to report any potential sightings using the Asian Hornet Watch app and online.”

New Forest District Council told the Echo that they had received no reports of Asian hornets, but advised residents to follow the safety instructions issued by The British Beekeepers Association.

The British Beekeepers Association's website said: "It is crucial all possible sightings are reported so experts can take quick and effective action to eradicate Yellow-Legged Asian Hornets."