Is the Asian hornet attacking your bees?
Cécile de Produits-Veto
Pharmacy technician ·
The (Vespa velutina) Asian hornet attacks your bees and is today one of the most feared predators by beekeepers. Since its arrival in France, it has seriously threatened bee colonies. This behaviour is worrying more and more beekeeping enthusiasts.
So, do Asian hornets really attack bees? Why do they act this way, and how can you protect your hives? Here are the essential answers to better understand and act.
Who are Asian hornets?
The Asian hornet is an insect native to Asia. Less massive than the European hornet, it is nevertheless faster, more aggressive, and perfectly adapted to hunting.
It is recognisable by its dark body, its yellow legs and its orange band on the abdomen. Today, it is well established in several regions of France, to the great despair of beekeepers.
Yes, the Asian hornet attacks your bees
There is no doubt that the Asian hornet represents a direct threat to domestic bees. It adopts a formidable hunting technique: it hovers in front of the hive entrance, catches foraging bees in flight, then cuts them up to keep only the thorax, rich in protein.
This behaviour is particularly observed in summer and autumn. During these periods, hornets need to feed their brood. And for that, they need protein.
Why are bees targeted?
Bees are an easy prey. Indeed, they come out of the hive by the dozen, which quickly attracts hornets. Moreover, they are rich in nutrients. This makes them an ideal food source for hornet larvae.
On the other hand, a concentrated hive makes hunting easier. It is simpler for the Asian hornet to hover and capture several bees in a short time.
What are the consequences for hives?
Repeated attacks cause significant stress in bees. They no longer dare to go out to forage. As a result, honey production decreases, and the colony can eventually collapse.
Some hives may even be completely deserted if the pressure from the hornet becomes too strong. For beekeepers, these losses are dramatic.
How to protect your bees?
To limit attacks, it is essential to act as early as spring. This is the period when founding queens come out of hibernation to create new nests.
On Produits-Veto.com, we offer practical and effective solutions:
- Selective traps: ideal for capturing founding queens without harming other insects.
- Specific attractants: designed to attract only Asian hornets.
- Entrance grids for hives: they limit access for predators.
- Trapping accessories: bottles, supports, nets…
Discover our range of products and the solutions from our partners.
5 simple steps for your hives
Here are a few easy tips to implement:
- Place traps as soon as the first fine days arrive.
- Install anti-hornet grids at the entrance of hives.
- Regularly clean around the apiary.
- Avoid sugary sources nearby.
- Watch for signs of attack (hornets hovering, decreased bee activity…).
Have questions? – FAQ
Do Asian hornets eat bees?
Yes, they capture them to feed their larvae. Only certain parts, such as the thorax, are consumed.
Why do Asian hornets target hives?
Because hives offer a large concentration of bees. This makes hunting and feeding easier for them.
What does an Asian hornet look like?
It measures between 2 and 3 cm, has a black thorax, an orange band on the abdomen and yellow leg tips.
How to fight hornets naturally?
Use selective traps, targeted baits and protective grids. These methods respect bees and biodiversity.
