Asian hornets: a promising new solution to protect gardens and beehives

They buzz around beehives and terraces. Faced with Asian hornets, a concrete approach is gaining ground, highlighted by the garden press, with the hope of more effective action without harming the rest of biodiversity.

A more selective track in the face of mounting pressure

Observed in France for almost 20 years, these predators mainly target bees in midsummer. As a result, stress on apiaries increases as colonies strengthen. The issue no longer concerns beekeepers alone. It also affects allotments, orchards and parks.

Public debate has shifted to trap selectivity. Conventional bait-bottles capture beneficial insects. What’s more, effectiveness varies according to season and weather. Feedback from the field therefore calls for a more targeted method, with calibrated baits.

According to the reference article, coordinated trials seek a compromise between efficacy and respect for beneficials. The idea is to target the right period and the right insect behavior. However, total eradication is not on the agenda. The priority remains to limit the impact of Asian hornets on beehives and garden life.

“Protecting bees requires more selective traps than ever.”

The right timing to act without making a mistake

Timing is a major factor. Trapping in the spring, for example, targets sugar-seeking foundresses. What’s more, this short window, from February to May depending on the region, can reduce summer pressure. In the event of a nest, call trained professionals.

In summer, the need for protein to feed the colony increases. As a result, sweet methods lose yield. This means we need to adapt our strategy and secure sensitive areas. Asian hornets remain active until the first cold spells arrive.

• Observing activity near the hives at dawn
• Place traps away from wind and sun
• Adapt bait to season and behavior
• Check often to limit non-targeted catches
• Contact a professional for nest destruction

Selectivity, safety and scope of action

The central message can be summed up in two words: targeting and caution. As such, the approach emphasizes more selective baits and regular checks. In addition, the maintenance of traps prevents decomposition, which attracts anything and everything. Asian hornets require a precise response, not a massive one.

No product (brand, model or trade name) is mentioned in the article provided.
The methods mention baits such as dark beer, white wine and red fruit syrup, without reference to a specific trap.

Safety is paramount in front of a nest, sometimes high up or in a building. So don’t try to burn it down or spray it with water under pressure. On the other hand, report it and keep children and animals away. Asian hornets defend their nests vigorously at close range.

Acknowledging presence and avoiding missteps

Regular patrols near hedges, beehives and composts help to identify pressure. Stationary flights in front of hives are a strong indicator. In addition, return trips to the same treetop can betray a nest. Keep your distance to limit the risk.

The classic mistakes are repeated every year. Therefore, avoiding unattended sugar traps all summer long protects beneficials. Also, don’t multiply baits haphazardly. Asian hornets need to be managed methodically, not by trial and error.

From garden to commune: playing together

Local coordination makes all the difference. Reporting suspected nests and sharing observations makes it easier for the pros to intervene. What’s more, a neighborhood watch limits the number of blind spots. Asian hornets rarely retreat from an isolated garden.

Working with beekeepers provides useful benchmarks. As a result, you benefit from an alert calendar and feedback. In addition, local workshops clarify the steps to take. The pressure of Asian hornets is felt across the whole of France.

Hope lies in a more targeted strategy, tested over the seasons. Selective baiting and catch sorting are becoming the norm. In addition, simple but regular monitoring helps to preserve pollinators. Asian hornets require rigor, but the room for maneuver is improving.

• Asian hornets