According to Pest Patrol, the company in charge of the intervention, the product used acts very quickly. The first hornets die in a few seconds, others within two to three days. Without their queen, some die of isolation. The product used does not have a danger for the inhabitants.
More and more nests
The Asian hornet is an invasive species arrived in Europe in 2004 via a lot of pottery imported in France. It has been present in Belgium since 2016 and was observed for the first time in Brussels in 2018. The first Brussels nest was found in 2019. According to Brussels Environment, the reports increased sharply: 6 nests identified in 2020, 8 in 2021, 28 in 2022, 282 in 2023 and 268 in 2024.
Asian hornets feed on insects, fruits, vegetables and waste. They can consume up to 11 kg of insects per season, which directly affects bee populations. The municipality has several municipal hives or in partnership. “”We see the damage caused to bees “underlines Vincent de Wolf.
“We can still act, but we must take care of it now”: almost one hive in two decimated this winter in Brussels
To limit their impact, the municipality of Etterbeek organized a public meeting on April 15. 62 traps were distributed to local residents. These traps allow you to catch the hornets that can no longer come out. This year, twelve times more nests have been destroyed than last year in the municipal territory.
35 times more interventions in two years: the Brussels Parliament requires actions to combat the proliferation of Asian hornets
Specialists recall that it is strongly not recommended to approach a nest. Frelons can attack if they feel threatened. A nest can also be won and fall. In the event of presence near a school, a crèche or a hospital, it is advisable to call the firefighters directly.
According to Pest Patrol, the main problem remains detection, because the nests are not always visible. Treating before the end of the season is essential to avoid the creation of new queens and therefore new colonies the following year.