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The Asian hornet (Vespa velutina) continues to threaten honeybee colonies and biodiversity across Europe. As this invasive species expands, selective and responsible trapping has become essential to protect beehives and maintain ecological balance.

But successful trapping requires more than just a bottle and some sweet liquid — it depends on using the right bait, the right timing, and the right trap.

When to Start Trapping

Spring trapping should last a maximum of two months, typically from early February to late May, depending on local temperatures.
It begins when the temperature consistently exceeds 12 °C, as this marks the flight period of founding queens, responsible for starting new nests.

To optimize your timing, consult the Asian Hornet Founding Queens Flight Index, which provides regional flight forecasts.

The Most Effective Baits for Asian Hornet Traps

The success of a trap depends largely on its bait. Over years of experience, Ornetin team has identified three mixtures that provide the best results while minimizing the risk to bees.

1️⃣ Sweet & Alcoholic Mix (Most Common)

A proven formula:

  • ⅓ beer

  • ⅓ red fruit syrup

  • ⅓ white wine

The sweetness attracts the hornets, while the alcohol repels honeybees — a combination that increases selectivity and efficiency.

2️⃣ Sweet Syrup

Simple yet effective.
A sugar syrup or fruit juice solution can be used early in the season, though it is less selective and may require closer monitoring.

3️⃣ Protein-Based Baits

In late summer and autumn, hornets switch to protein sources to feed their larvae.
Effective protein options include:

  • Shrimp or fish leftovers

  • Cat pâté or wet pet food

Using both sweet and protein baits throughout the season helps maintain effectiveness year-round.

Choosing the Right Trap

To minimize the impact on non-target insects, use traps that allow smaller species to escape.
Creel-type traps with conical entrances are recommended because they retain hornets while releasing bees and other beneficial insects.

Increase Efficiency with Ornetin UV Traps

For maximum performance, use Ornetin UV traps — precision-engineered devices that combine UV light attraction with interchangeable nozzles for selective trapping of queens and workers from different hornet species like Orientalis and many more.

This innovative design makes Ornetin UV traps both highly effective and environmentally responsible, ideal for professional beekeepers and hobbyists alike.

👉 Learn more and order yours at here.

Keeping Traps Effective

To maintain high efficiency:

  • Do not empty traps for about a month; natural fermentation strengthens the scent.

  • Refresh bait weekly (every 7 days) to preserve attractiveness.

  • Inspect traps weekly to record captures and ensure proper operation.

Best Placement Practices

Trap distribution plays a major role in effectiveness:

  • 1–2 traps per apiary for standard protection.

  • Up to 10 traps within a 500 m radius in high-risk zones.

  • Prioritize areas with previous nest activity or known hornet presence.

Complete Protection for Your Beehives and Apiary

Beyond trapping, physical hive protection is essential to keep your colonies safe.
Ornetin offers two innovative solutions designed to work in synergy with your trapping system:

Together, these tools form a comprehensive and science-based protection strategy for beekeepers facing the Asian hornet challenge.

Key Takeaways

  • Start trapping when temperatures exceed 12 °C.

  • Use selective traps and document your captures.

  • The beer + syrup + white wine mix remains the most effective bait.

  • Combine sweet and protein baits throughout the season.

  • Choose Ornetin UV traps for precise, selective trapping.

Learn More

Explore Ornetin’s full range of professional solutions at www.ornetin.com
Protect your beehives and apiaries from the Asian hornet with trusted, innovative tools built by and for beekeepers. 🐝

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