AI System Aims to Spot Invasive Asian Hornets Early to Protect Bees

• Scientists at University of Exeter developed AI system called VespAI to detect invasive Asian hornets • VespAI uses sensors, cameras, and AI to identify Asian hornets with high accuracy • System tested in Channel Islands and Jersey with encouraging results • Goal is early detection to track hornets back to nests for destruction before they damage bee populations • Researchers plan to deploy more prototypes after initial tests show promise for robust, automated Asian hornet surveillance