news
Why hornets can be more dangerous in France in autumn
Cyclists, runners and walkers attacked around country
The end of summer does not mean the end of hornet season, as the insects pose a greater risk in early autumn when colonies reach their largest populations and food becomes scarcer.
This seasonal peak has coincided with a series of incidents involving cyclists, runners and walkers in several parts of the country.
In Haute-Vienne, 37 cyclists were stung by hornets on a VTT trail near Peyrilhac, close to Limoges, with four taken to hospital. The group was descending a section of the route when they passed within a few metres of a tree trunk - apparently disturbing a nest.
In Aveyron, 51 teenagers taking part in a cross-country event at Bozouls were also stung, with two requiring hospital treatment.
Other groups have been affected in recent weeks, including mountain bikers in the Côtes-d’Armor and runners and walkers in Isère.
The incidents highlight why the end of summer does not mean the end of the hornet season.
Why numbers peak in autumn
“Colonies reach their greatest number of individuals in the nest at this time”, entomologist Léna Polin of the Office for Insects and their Environment (Opie) told BFM.
The queen produces both males and new queens, leaving nests particularly crowded.
At the same time, food becomes less plentiful, so more adult hornets venture outside in search of nectar, sap and other food.
European hornet nests can contain hundreds of insects, while Asian hornet nests can contain thousands.
This combination of large colonies and increased activity outside the nest can increase the chances of encounters with people.
Hornets do not generally seek out humans, but they can become defensive when people get close to their nest.
Sudden movements can disturb them, while vibrations from groups of cyclists may also provoke a reaction, Ms Polin said.
What to do if you see a nest
Hornet nests are usually recognisable as large, roughly spherical structures resembling papier mâché. They should not be approached or disturbed.
Anyone who finds a nest at home should not attempt to destroy it themselves. The national plan for dealing with Asian hornets leaves arrangements for destroying nests largely to local authorities, so people should contact their mairie to find out what applies in their area.
Activity will eventually decline as temperatures fall. Worker hornets and males die, while newly produced queens leave the nest to find sheltered places to spend the winter before emerging in spring.
People taking part in outdoor activities should therefore remain cautious for the next few weeks, particularly in areas where hornet nests may be present.
Anyone stung should remove any rings from the affected hand, clean and disinfect the area, and seek immediate medical attention if they are allergic or develop concerning symptoms.
