Fighting Asian hornets in Provence
Have you discovered an Asian hornet's nest? We'll be on site quickly! Call now - Daily Mon-Sun 07:00-21:30. Contact us now: 058 510 22 54
Having the Asian hornet's nest removed
The invasive hornet species Vespa velutina from South-East Asia has aggressively spread to Switzerland and the entire subcontinent, posing a threat to honey bees and causing concern among beekeepers. Although harmless to humans, a small number of these hornets can launch an attack on a bee colony and wipe it out within a matter of hours. If you have discovered a hornet's nest on your house, patio, shed, or in your blind box, contact our experts for hornet nest removal in Provence!
Use the uncomplicated telephone service of the Hornet experts in Provence and simply inform us at 058 510 22 54, we will be on site quickly so that you and everyone in your area feel completely safe again.
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Appearance of the Asian hornet
Here are some characteristics that distinguish the Asian hornet:
1. Size: The queen can reach a length of about 3 cm, while the workers are slightly smaller and measure about 2.5 cm.
2. Color: The Asian hornet has a dark body that is almost black, with a yellow stripe at the back of the abdomen. Its face is orange-yellow.
3. Wings: The wings are dark and almost smoky gray.
4. Legs: The hornet has yellow tips on its legs, which is a striking distinguishing feature when it flies.
5. Nest: The Asian hornet's nest is often high in the trees, but it can also be found underground or in tall structures such as chimneys. It has an oval shape and is made of chewed wood, which gives the hornet a papery texture.
It is important to distinguish the Asian hornet from the European hornet (Vespa crabro), which is more harmless and a natural part of the European fauna. If you suspect you have found an Asian hornet nest near you in Provence, you should report this to the local authorities, or using our reporting form, as they can spread quickly and be harmful to bees and other insects. To avoid being attacked by the flying inhabitants, you should hire a professional pest controller such as the Hornet Experts Provence. We can identify the nest beyond doubt and take further steps to remove the Asian hornets professionally.
News about the Asian hornet in Provence
10.12.2024 Western Switzerland: Killer hornet eats bees
This year, the Asian killer hornet has significantly expanded its territory, particularly in western Switzerland. This expansion represents a serious threat to local bee populations, as these hornets mainly hunt bees. The potential impacts could be serious. In addition to threatening bee numbers, the hornet also poses a risk to individuals who are allergic to its venom.
06.12.2024 Serious concerns about the bee population!
Beekeepers throughout various regions of Europe are facing attacks on their hives. A small cluster of Asian hornets has the ability to destroy a whole bee colony within a few hours. This results in a reduction of pollinator populations, which could have significant impacts on pollination, local vegetation, and agricultural production.
02.12.2024 Asian hornet doesn't just eat bees!
Here’s the danger it presents to insects!
In addition to preying on beetles and flies, honeybees are a major component of the Asian hornet’s diet, comprising up to 85 percent of what it consumes. As a result, the Asian hornet not only causes issues for fruit growers but also exacerbates the already severe threat to our bee populations.
28.11.2024 How did the Asian hornet get to Europe?
The Asian hornet probably arrived in Europe by chance. It swiftly expanded across France and surrounding countries. Its ability to adapt to different environments, combined with the lack of natural predators in Europe, has allowed it to spread quickly. One nest can produce several hundred new queens in just one season.
Asian Hornet Reporting Form
Please fill out all required fields and submit the form.
Help us!
If you discover an Asian hornet or a nest of this invasive species in Provence, it is of the utmost importance that you report it immediately. The Asian hornet is not only dangerous to humans, but also poses a serious threat to native bee populations and the ecological balance in Switzerland.
Why is it important to report the find?
Once established, the Asian hornet has a profound impact on the native insect species, honey bees being particularly vulnerable, within the regions it inhabits. By preying on bees, these hornets spearhead a succession of events that can result in a decline in pollinator populations, ultimately influencing the local flora and agricultural productivity. By reporting sightings, experts can react quickly, remove the hornets or their nests and thus prevent the spread of this invasive species.
Notification form for sightings
Take an active role in regulating the overpopulation of the Asian hornet in Switzerland and safeguarding our native insect populations. Report any suspicions or sightings using our dedicated reporting form, enabling us to intervene at an early stage and minimize the spread of this dangerous species that poses a threat to our ecosystems.
Your contribution is crucial in the fight against the Asian hornet in Provence. Together we can protect nature and maintain the balance of our ecosystems;
Thank you for your vigilant attention and your commitment to protecting our environment.
How dangerous is the Asian hornet?
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is a predatory insect that originated in Asia and has spread in recent years to various parts of Europe, including France and now also Switzerland and in Provence. Although it poses a threat to honey bees and native biodiversity, it is generally no more dangerous to humans than other wasp species. Nevertheless, there are some aspects to be aware of:
1. Threat to honey bees: The Asian hornet preys on honey bees, threatening native bee populations. A decline in bees can have a negative impact on pollination and thus on local flora and agricultural production.
2. Stings: As with other wasp and hornet species, the stings of the Asian hornet can also be painful. For most people, the stings are unpleasant but not dangerous. However, people who are allergic to wasp or hornet stings can suffer a severe allergic reaction, which in the worst case can lead to anaphylactic shock.
3. Aggressiveness: Although the Asian hornet is not necessarily more aggressive towards humans than other wasp species, it can become aggressive if it feels threatened, especially near its nest.
4. Ecological effects: Apart from the direct effects on honey bees, the spread of the Asian hornet can also disturb the ecological balance by affecting the populations of other insects.
Differentiation is crucial between the Asian hornet and the Asian giant hornet (*Vespa mandarinia*), familiarly addressed as the "killer hornet." The considerable difference in size, alongside the giant hornet's more powerful venom and larger sting, heightens the potential risks it poses to humans.
If you have discovered a nest, call us immediately: 058 510 22 54
Our hornet professionals in Provence are certified by the VSS.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Hornets in Provence
The Asian hornet surpasses most other hornet species in terms of danger, with its stings carrying the potential for severe or even fatal consequences.
Standing as a sizeable stinging insect, the Asian hornet measures up to 3 cm in length. Its narrow black body is adorned with a dense and captivating combination of orange, yellow, and black stripes.
The Asian hornet's natural inclination is to be shy and passive, but its behavior swiftly changes to an active and aggressive mode when it senses a threat or feels cornered, prioritizing its defense.
It is essential to note the harmful effects of the venom carried by the Asian hornet, as it can cause painful bites and elicit allergic reactions in humans.
The Asian hornet's venomous sting is a cause for concern, as it delivers more pain than other wasps and may lead to allergic reactions.
If you encounter an Asian hornet and need to report it, you must reach out to a regional officer specializing in the protection of wild bees or an affiliated agency of the responsible Ministry of Agriculture.
Reporting Asian hornets is indispensable for preventing attacks and controlling their dissemination. This type of insect is highly territorial and exhibits aggression.
In Switzerland, addressing the presence of Asian hornets effectively necessitates professional hornet control measures. Contacting a reputable pest control service is advised for prompt assistance.
The Asian hornet is not included in protected species; however, strict monitoring is required to control their population and prevent their spread.
Asian hornets prepare for hibernation by occupying either a communal space or isolated positions, retreating to the corners of walls, structures, garden sheds, occasional houses, or tree hollows.
Would you like more information about Asian hornets? Then take a look at our FAQ's about Asian hornets.
Private inquiry form
For an uncomplicated request to remove an Asian hornet's nest, please use our contact form for private individuals.
Real estate inquiry form
Use our property management order form to request the removal of an Asian hornet's nest.
