Where can I find an Asian hornet trap in France if my mairie will not give me one?

Reader question: My mairie knows about the issue but will not supply a trap. What steps can I take in that case, are there any rules and if not where can I find one for free? 

Asian hornets are now present in most regions of France, but there is no national obligation requiring communes to provide free traps

Some communes do distribute them locally, however, often through departmental or intercommunal anti-hornet programs. 

If your mairie refuses to provide a trap, there are several possible alternatives.

In some cases, neighbouring communes may offer free traps even if yours does not. Many municipalities distribute them only during short spring campaigns, often funded through departmental programmes or local biodiversity budgets. Because of this, availability can vary from one town to another.

Another useful contact is beekeeping associations. These groups are often at the forefront of efforts to monitor and reduce Asian hornet populations, particularly to protect hives. 

They may be able to lend equipment or offer practical guidance on trapping strategies and placement and are generally a reliable source of local advice.

Environmental and nature associations may also be able to help, although their role is usually focused on awareness. 

They often organise workshops or public events explaining how to monitor hornets and build simple traps, particularly in spring when queen hornets are active.

If no free trap is available locally, it is also possible to build a simple DIY trap at low cost. The most common method involves using a plastic bottle cut and inverted into a funnel shape, with a sweet and slightly fermented bait mixture placed inside. 

However, care must be taken with placement, as poorly designed or poorly positioned traps can unintentionally capture non-target insects, including bees. For this reason, official guidance recommends more selective commercial traps when available.

French authorities have recently promoted approved trap models such as the Japanese trap, the Korean wing trap, and the Neoppi-type grid cage trap, which are designed to reduce accidental capture of beneficial insects.

Bottle traps, while widely used, are considered less selective and are not always encouraged in official recommendations.

Finally, some communes or departments also offer partial reimbursement for approved traps.