Asian hornet trap: when and how to use it effectively

Why use a trap against the Asian hornet?

The Asian hornet trap is not intended to eradicate the species on its own. Its main purpose is to reduce the pressure exerted by the Asian hornet locally , particularly in sensitive areas such as apiaries, gardens, or sites already affected in previous years.

When used at the right time, trapping allows for the targeting of founding queens , which are responsible for creating nests. Capturing a queen at the beginning of the season can potentially prevent the formation of an entire colony that could number several thousand individuals a few months later. The trap then becomes a preventative tool, complementing the detection and destruction of nests.

How to use a trap effectively and responsibly?

To be truly effective, trapping the Asian hornet must follow certain essential rules.

Choosing the right trap is crucial. It is recommended to use selective traps , designed to preferentially attract the Asian hornet while minimizing the accidental capture of other insects, particularly pollinators. The selectivity of the device is a key criterion for an approach that respects biodiversity.

The trap's location also plays an important role. It should be installed in high-risk areas, such as near beehives, gardens, or areas where nests have been observed in previous years. The trap should be placed at an appropriate height and away from frequently used passageways to minimize the risks.

Finally, the duration of use should be limited. Targeted trapping over a few weeks in the spring is generally more effective than year-round installation. This approach maximizes the impact on queen wasps while minimizing adverse environmental effects.

The limitations of the Asian hornet trap

Even when used correctly, the Asian hornet trap remains a supplementary tool . It cannot capture all the queens and does not replace other essential actions. A single untrapped queen can be enough to create a nest and restart the population dynamic.

Furthermore, excessive or poorly targeted trapping can negatively impact local wildlife. Therefore, it is important to adopt a measured approach, based on knowledge of the Asian hornet's life cycle and adapted to the local context.

The trap in a global strategy to combat

To be effective in the long term, the Asian hornet trap must be part of a comprehensive management strategy . This strategy rests on several complementary pillars: prevention, early detection of nests, their destruction by professionals, and public awareness.

Trapping, when used correctly, reinforces these actions by acting upstream, before colonies fully develop. It is this combination of tools and practices that allows us to sustainably limit the impacts of the Asian hornet, while respecting ecological balance.