Autumn, from September to mid-November, is a critical period in the fight against the Asian hornet in the Versailles Grand Parc area. Colonies reach their maximum size and prepare to release hundreds of future queens (gynes), making rapid action before winter essential to prevent next spring's invasion.
As trees shed their leaves, nests become more visible, offering an ideal opportunity for intervention. Destroying an active nest in autumn directly intercepts future queens before they disperse to establish new colonies.
It is advised to act before mid-November, as after the first hard frosts, queens leave the nest. Solo interventions are strongly discouraged due to the hornets' increased aggression at this time.
Upon spotting a suspicious nest, it is recommended to report it on dedicated platforms like Le Frelon or contact the town hall services for professional intervention. Concerted action across the agglomeration aims to sustainably limit the proliferation of this species harmful to biodiversity and apiaries.
