Fighting Asian hornets in Opfikon
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
Originating in South-East Asia, Vespa velutina, a hornet species, has rapidly invaded Switzerland as well as the entire subcontinent, causing beekeepers to sound the alarm. While harmless to humans, it has gained notoriety as a predator of honey bees. Just a few of these hornets can launch an attack and eliminate an entire bee colony within a few 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 Opfikon!
Use the uncomplicated telephone service of the Hornet experts in Opfikon 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 Opfikon, 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 Opfikon. We can identify the nest beyond doubt and take further steps to remove the Asian hornets professionally.
News about the Asian hornet in Opfikon
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 Opfikon, 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?
The Asian hornet's impact on native insects, honey bees in particular, is highly significant in regions where it becomes established. By preying on bees, these hornets create a domino effect that can lead to a decline in pollinator populations, ultimately affecting the ecological balance of the local flora and agricultural production. 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
We depend on your cooperation to regulate the overpopulation of the Asian hornet in Switzerland. Please utilize our special reporting form to report any suspicions or sightings, as your participation is crucial in enabling us to intervene at an early stage and minimize the spread of this dangerous species, protecting our native insect populations and maintaining the health of our ecosystems.
Your contribution is crucial in the fight against the Asian hornet in Opfikon. 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 Opfikon. 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.
One must be attentive to differentiating the Asian hornet from the Asian giant hornet (*Vespa mandarinia*), also known as the "killer hornet." The giant hornet's notably larger dimensions, more potent venom, and larger sting size should not be overlooked, as they contribute to increased potential danger to humans.
If you have discovered a nest, call us immediately: 058 510 22 54
Our hornet professionals in Opfikon are certified by the VSS.
Frequently Asked Questions About Asian Hornets in Opfikon
Recognized for its ability to cause stings that can lead to severe or even fatal consequences, the Asian hornet ranks as a significantly more hazardous species than most other hornet types.
Reaching a length of up to 3 cm, the Asian hornet is a sizable stinging insect known for its slender, black physique, adorned with a captivating arrangement of dense orange, yellow, and black stripes.
Despite its typically shy and passive nature, the Asian hornet can transition into a state of heightened activity and aggression when confronted and cornered, exhibiting robust defensive behavior.
The Asian hornet is highly poisonous to humans, with its bites causing pain and the potential for allergic reactions to manifest.
The Asian hornet's venomous sting renders it hazardous. The pain inflicted is more intense than that of other wasps, and it has the ability to instigate allergic reactions.
To report the presence of an Asian hornet, it is important to reach out to either a regional wild bee protection officer or an agency affiliated with the responsible Ministry of Agriculture.
To mitigate the risk of attacks and control the distribution of Asian hornets, it is crucial to report their presence promptly, considering their territorial nature and aggressive behavior.
Asian hornets pose a significant threat in Switzerland, emphasizing the need for professional hornet control. It is recommended to promptly call a trusted pest control service for assistance.
In the absence of protection for the Asian hornet, it is necessary to closely monitor their numbers to restrict their spread effectively.
During hibernation, Asian hornets opt for one of two hibernation arrangements: they either hibernate collectively, dwelling together, or hibernate alone, finding a sanctuary in the corners of walls, buildings, garden sheds, chance 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.
