Asian Hornet: What to do?

In 2016, the first Asian hornet nest was identified in Wallonia, in the Tournai region. Since then, this pest has continued to spread, posing a major threat to bees and local ecosystems. Considered an invasive species, the Asian hornet is rigorously monitored by regional authorities.

The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina), which resembles a large, dark wasp, is slightly smaller than the European hornet. It is easily identified by its black thorax, yellow-ringed abdomen and distinctive yellow legs.

Types of Asian Hornet Nests

The Asian hornet builds two types of nests throughout the year:

• Spring nest (primary nest): From late March or early April, young founding queens begin to build this nest after their overwintering period. These nests are often small and can be confused with those of European wasps or hornets.
• Summer nest (secondary nest): When weather conditions are favorable, Asian hornet colonies build a secondary nest from June onwards. Spherical in shape, it is often located high up in trees (more than 10 meters away). The nest can reach a diameter of 40 to 80 cm and shelter thousands of individuals. It has a small lateral opening.

European hornets can also build their nests in trees, but these are more elongated and have a wide basal opening. They are generally found in sheltered places such as attics, sheds or hollow trees.

Risks for humans

Although their size may seem intimidating, Asian hornets are relatively non-aggressive towards humans. However, they can become very aggressive if their nest is threatened. Their sting, more painful because of their long stinger, is generally no more dangerous than that of wasps, except in cases of allergy.

What to do in case of stings?

Asian hornet stings, like those of other hymenoptera (wasps, bees, bumblebees), cause localized swelling that generally disappears after a few hours. Here's what you need to do:

• Stinger removal and disinfection: Remove the stinger and disinfect the wound.
• Venom allergy: Approximately 2 % of the population is allergic to Hymenoptera venom, which can cause severe reactions such as urticaria, breathing difficulties, dizziness or vomiting.
• Stinging in the mouth: This can lead to airway obstruction. Suck on ice cubes to slow the swelling.
• Multiple stings: Severe poisoning can occur with multiple stings. Hospitalization is recommended for 20 or more bites.

Discovery of an Asian Hornet nest

If you discover an Asian hornet nest, it's crucial that you don't try to destroy it yourself. Nests must be removed by trained and equipped professionals.

• Contact Local Authorities: Report the presence of a nest to local authorities or pest management professionals such as hornets.be
• Intervention for beekeepers: If a nest is located less than one kilometer from an apiary, beekeepers can benefit from free intervention by local beekeeping sections trained by the CRA-W. Consult the information available on beekeeping interventions.

Prevention and trapping

Prevention plays a crucial role in Asian hornet management. Setting traps in the spring can help capture founding queens and reduce the formation of new colonies. Trapping must be carried out responsibly to avoid capturing other beneficial insects.

The importance of protecting beehives

Asian hornets are formidable predators of bees, attacking hives and devouring workers and larvae. They can cause considerable damage to apiaries, endangering bee colonies. Beekeepers need to be vigilant and take measures to protect their hives, such as installing traps and using appropriate management techniques.

The Role of Insecticides

The use of insecticides to destroy Asian hornet nests must be carried out by professionals. These products can be effective, but their use requires precautions to avoid harmful effects on the environment and other pollinators. Contact a professional such as pestpatrol.be

Conclusion

The proliferation of the Asian hornet represents a serious threat to bees and the local ecosystem. If a nest is discovered, it is imperative to call in professionals to destroy it. For more details on pest management and protecting your apiaries, visit our website hornets.be