Every late summer, the Asian hornet is in the news: spectacular nests, a threat to bees and painful stings. Now established across the country, it calls for vigilance and caution — without panic.
Recognising the Asian hornet and its nest
The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) is darker than the European hornet, with characteristic yellow legs. Its spherical nest, which can reach the size of a ball, is often found:
- high up in trees;
- under a roof, a garden shed or a balcony;
- more rarely near the ground, in a hedge.
What are the risks?
The Asian hornet is no more aggressive than other wasps as long as you keep your distance. But near the nest, it defends its colony and can sting in numbers. Stings are painful and dangerous for people who are allergic. It is also a threat to bees, which it hunts near hives.
The golden rule: never intervene alone
A nest should never be destroyed by yourself: the operation triggers swarm attacks. The right reflexes:
- Keep your distance (at least 5 metres) and keep children and pets away.
- Do not block the nest entrance.
- Report the nest and call an equipped professional.
Our technicians intervene with the appropriate protective gear. Discover our nest removal services and our protection products.
A nest spotted near your home? Contact our experts for a fast, safe intervention.
