Asian Hornet and Traps

[E&MBees]

Hi,

I have received a BBKA email regarding Asian Hornet and setting out traps. This is my first year beekeeping, so am not sure which sort of trap to use. There are many on the internet, ranging in price and probably effectiveness. Which ones have people tried and found effective? What bait do you use? The wasps are causing the bees some irritation too.

Thanks.
Emily

 

[Karol]

I think trapping in the UK especially in the Spring in the absence of a confirmed infestation is counter productive. The deployment of traps in Spring will only serve to remove native competition which will simply assist Velutina getting established. Far better in my opinion to monitor hives and likely foraging sources for signs of Velutina and then report pdq to the relevant authorities. You might find this helpful:

http://www.nonnativespecies.org/alerts/index.cfm?id=4

https://www.gov.uk/government/news/asian-hornet-identified-in-south-hampshire

 

[Swarm]

Hi,

I have received a BBKA email regarding Asian Hornet and setting out traps. This is my first year beekeeping, so am not sure which sort of trap to use. There are many on the internet, ranging in price and probably effectiveness. Which ones have people tried and found effective? What bait do you use? The wasps are causing the bees some irritation too.

Thanks.
Emily

Hello Emily,
Save your money the warnings are 'just in case' for if/when VV arrives. Reduced and/or concealed entrance (like an under floor entrance) will help enormously with wasps.

 

[Angularity]

Found one of these beauties on my arm yesterday.

https://www.buglife.org.uk/bugs-and-habitats/hornet-hoverfly

Not scared at all..