Many people know the dangers that bees and wasps can pose. However, many are unaware of the dangers posed by this invasive species of Vespidae. The sting of the Asian hornet is very painful, and this insect decimates bees. What are the dangers of the hornet from Asia? What practical solutions exist to protect against the spread of this pest?
Brief introduction to the Asian hornet
The Asian hornet, Vespa velutina, is an invasive species native to Southeast Asia. This large insect can cause significant damage to ecosystems and agriculture. With its yellow legs and black and yellow stripes, it is easy to spot in nature or in your garden!
The sting of the Asian hornet is very painful
Although entomologists explain that generally, the hornet from Asia only attacks in self-defense, its sting is particularly painful. Apart from the sharp pain, there are often no other consequences for victims.
Some people, however, develop severe allergic reactions to the venom of the Asian hornet. This allergy can manifest as:
- swelling,
- redness of the sting area,
- nausea,
- breathing difficulties if appropriate measures are not taken quickly.
To avoid stings from this insect, call on a company that fights the Asian hornet as soon as you see them in your environment. The insect's stings can also be fatal if numerous or if they occur near a mucous membrane. The sting of this hornet is also very strong compared to those of other hymenopteran species.
It is indeed capable of piercing thick clothing and even rubber boots to reach the skin. The insect also loses its stinger less quickly than other pest species. It can thus sting a person multiple times.
The risk of stings by the Asian hornet is also high because it tends to place its nests near houses or even inside homes. Although they generally place themselves high up, this pest sometimes nests on branches easily accessible to children. The risk that children get stung while playing outside is therefore greater.
This insect is a formidable predator for bees
Another reason why the hornet from Asia is particularly dangerous is that, in addition to fruits, it also eats other insects, including bees. This characteristic differentiates it from wasps, which are more attracted to food. Hornets pose a serious threat to bee colonies; they attack hives or hunt bees directly when they forage on flowers.
They cut into their bodies to feed on their protein-rich thorax. They also use them to feed their larvae. The damage caused by the Asian hornet in hives peaks towards the end of summer. It can pillage the brood and kill a large part of the workers. Although small hives are more vulnerable, larger ones are also threatened. When they sense the presence of hornets, bees become stressed and forage less to prepare for winter. The hive is thus in danger.
The Asian hornet is a threat to biodiversity in France
It is estimated that in cities, the diet of the hornet from Asia consists of 80% foraging bees. In the countryside, they make up 45% of its diet. This predator truly decimates bee colonies by consuming them but also by preventing them from going out to gather the necessary provisions for winter preparation.
Bees are, however, essential pollinating insects for the reproductive cycle of plant species and the production of many crops. By destroying hives, the Asian hornet thus becomes a direct danger to biodiversity.
What practical solutions can be adopted against this pest?
The first step is to identify Asian hornets and their nests. If you notice a large number of dead bees near your house, this may indicate the presence of this pest. Once the nest is identified, contact a company that fights the Asian hornet in your area.
When dealing with Asian hornet nests, it is essential to be cautious and not approach too closely. Do not be quick to use insecticides either. Although some can eliminate the hornets from Asia, they can also kill other useful insects in your garden. You can also protect hives if you are a beekeeper and introduce natural predators of the hornet into your environment.
Protect bee hives in beekeeping
Since 2012, the Asian hornet has been classified as a second-category health hazard for domestic bee hives. It is therefore up to individuals, not the state, to take effective measures to combat this destructive insect.
To reduce bee mortality, beekeepers can reduce the size of hive entrances. If the entrance height is 5.5 mm, only bees can enter. There are also shields or anti-hornet muzzles that form a barrier around hives. They prevent the predator insect from hovering around the hives and are very useful in summer.
Natural predators of the Asian hornet
The hornet from Asia also has some formidable natural predators that can be useful in fighting it. For example, the black chicken of Janzé is appreciated by beekeepers. They raise this domestic chicken alongside bees, and it particularly likes hornets.
The European bee-eater, although rare to observe, is another predator feared by hornets. Present in France between April and September, this bird feeds on the Asian hornet. Its predatory action is, however, more appreciated in environments without hives. The European bee-eater is also a predator of bees. The honey buzzard, the woodchat shrike, and the great tit are also predators of the Asian hornet.
Sources: https://ecotree.green/blog/le-frelon-asiatique-est-il-une-menace-pour-les-abeilles-et-la-biodiversite
https://agriculture.gouv.fr/le-frelon-asiatique-quelle-reglementation