Residents are being encouraged to keep their eyes peeled for a yellow-legged insect which could have a damaging impact on the environment.
Vespa Veluntia – also known as the Asian Hornet – is an invasive, non-native species and has been sighted in the county over the past few months.
As a highly effective predator, it can cause significant losses to bee colonies, other native species and potentially ecosystems.
They are active between April and November – especially in August and September.
Residents who suspect they may have seen an Asian Hornet are suggested to report it with a photo and details online, but should not disturb an active nest.
Leader Cllr Jim Martin spoke with Dover and District Beekeepers’ Association education officer Jackie Thomas recently about how best to identify them.
She said: “They are quite distinctive – with the main feature being an orange face, a black body, striped back, yellow legs and about the size of a two pence piece.
“We would suggest people download the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs’ free Asian Hornet Watch app where you can take a photograph and easily upload a picture of your sighting.”
The mobile app can be used to help people quickly and easily report sightings of this invasive species and can be accessed via the Apple and Android app stores.
Further information and identification sheets are available on the GB Non-Native Species Secretariat website.