Beekeepers in southeastern France are facing increasing losses due to the Asian hornet, with…

Beekeepers in southeastern France are facing increasing losses due to the Asian hornet, with methods like nets, electric fences, and traps failing to protect hives. They compare their vulnerability to that of sheep farmers against wolves, according to AFP. The Asian hornet was first spotted in France in 2004, likely introduced accidentally through ceramic imports from China.

Now widespread across France, the hornet is a significant predator of various insects, including honeybees. In the Alpes-Maritimes department, bordering Italy, the hornet was reported about 15 years ago. However, damage was considered minimal until 2022, as noted by Jean-Louis Lautard, president of the Provence Honey Producers Union, which has around 320 members.