Protect Your Beehive from Vespa velutina with the Ornetin Muzzle
As Vespa velutina (Asian hornet) pressure continues to increase across Europe year after year, protecting your bees is no longer optional — it is essential for colony survival. That’s why the BroodMinder team in France developed the Ornetin Muzzle®, a high-performance solution engineered to provide effective and selective protection against Asian hornets.
A Smarter, More Effective Hive Protection System
Unlike traditional hive muzzles that rely on mesh or netting — often disorienting bees and eventually bypassed by hornets — the Ornetin Muzzle® introduces a next-generation approach to hive protection. Its precision laser-cut entrances are designed to optimize both defense and bee traffic flow.
- 72 cm of total entrance length — up to 5x more than a standard Nicot green reducer
- Multiple calibrated entrances for smooth, multidirectional bee movement
- Hornet-proof design with 5 mm laser-cut openings
This innovative design allows bees to move freely and efficiently, while preventing hornets from entering the hive. In many cases, hornets become disoriented and are naturally redirected toward nearby traps such as the Ornetin UV® hornet trap.
Precision Engineering and Durable Materials
Constructed from natural untreated wood and transparent plexiglass, the Ornetin Muzzle® combines durability, visibility, and performance:
- Clear view of hive entrance activity
- Reinforced protection without disturbing daily hive operations
- Adaptable to slight misalignments or variations in hive geometry
Fast Assembly and Easy Installation
The Ornetin Muzzle® is designed for quick setup and practical use in the field. Each kit includes:
- Pre-cut wooden panels
- Transparent plexiglass
- All necessary screws
- Illustrated instructions and a video tutorial
Assembly time: approximately 10 minutes
Installation: only one screw required to secure the unit to the hive
Made in France – Sustainable and Local
The Ornetin Muzzle is designed and manufactured in Béarn (France), supporting local production and sustainable beekeeping practices.
Product dimensions:
- Width: 420 mm
- Height: 135 mm
- Depth: 160 mm
Hive compatibility: Designed for Dadant hives with Nicot bottom boards and green reducers. If your hive differs, a custom version may be available — contact us for more information.
Deployment and Maintenance
Installation period: Late June, when Asian hornet pressure begins
Best practice: Install in the morning to allow bees to reorient
Adaptation time: Bees may require a few hours to adjust
Maintenance tips:
- Apply oil or paint to improve durability and match your hives
- Occasionally lift and gently shake to remove debris
- Remove in late November or leave in place for winter insulation
Complete Your Asian Hornet Defense System
For maximum efficiency, pair the Ornetin Muzzle with the Ornetin UV trap, designed to capture hornets attracted near the hive. This dual system significantly reduces pressure on guard bees and improves colony stability during peak season.
Order Your Ornetin Muzzle
The Ornetin Muzzle® is available in here. Choose the Ornetin Muzzle — a modern, durable, and highly effective solution to protect your beehives from Vespa velutina.