Introduction
This new hornet probably arrived with a consignment of imported pottery in November 2005 and, after surviving the winter has spread throughout much of Aquitaine. Its arrival was noticed almost immediately, and the spread to new areas is being well documented. Vespa velutina is no more dangerous for humans than the European hornet (Vespa crabro), but it is considered a problem for honeybees in Asia. (N.B. This is NOT the Asian Giant Hornet Vespa mandarinia.)
Competition
When two very similar species are found in the same area there is intense competition. Eventually one will replace the other. Both of these hornets are predators, especially of caterpillars, and they both like sugary fruits. The prune-growing region of ‘Lot-et-Garonne’ is an ideal habitat and entomologists are carefully studying the outcome of this clash between the European and Asian hornets. (If you have any relevant information you should contact Jean Haxaire: jean.haxaire@wanadoo.fr ).