FAQS

Is TRAP-X® selective?

Trap-X® is a selective monitoring trap designed specifically for Asian hornets (Vespa velutina). Its entrance holes are designed to reduce entry by larger non-target species, while still enabling effective monitoring of Asian hornet activity.

Deployment Timing to Enhance Selectivity

  • Queen Wasps (example of potential bycatch)

    • To avoid catching founding queen wasps, delay deployment until late May onwards, when workers are active and queens are less likely to be trapped.

  • Buff-tailed Bumblebees (example of potential bycatch)

    • Bumblebee queens are most active in early spring while seeking nest sites (March to mid-May).

    • Deploying traps after mid-May greatly reduces the risk of trapping bumblebee queens.

European Hornets (Vespa crabro)

  • Size & Selectivity: European hornet workers are generally larger than Asian hornet workers, and most full-sized workers and queens are too big to pass through the Trap-X® entrance holes.

  • Variation in Size: Some smaller European hornet workers are similar in size to Asian hornet workers and may still be able to enter the trap.

  • Bycatch Risk: Because of this size overlap, it’s not possible to completely exclude European hornets using entrance size alone.

  • Responsible Monitoring: If any European hornets are caught unintentionally, check traps regularly so they can be released alive wherever possible.

Bycatch Considerations

  • Designed to Minimise Bycatch: Trap-X® has been carefully designed to be selective, but it is not possible to eliminate bycatch entirely.

  • Examples of Potential Bycatch: Non-target species such as wasps, bumblebees, and European hornets may occasionally enter.

  • Worker Escape: Most worker bees and wasps can exit unaided, though some wasp queens may be unable to escape.

  • Responsible Monitoring: Regularly check traps so any non-target species can be released alive, helping to protect pollinators and beneficial insects.

Deployment Responsibility

Deployment timing and strategy should be based on local conditions and follow the advice of local authorities, Asian hornet coordinators, or relevant environmental bodies to ensure responsible and effective use.

By combining a selective trap design, appropriate deployment timing, and regular monitoring, Trap-X® offers an effective and environmentally responsible solution for monitoring Asian hornet activity while helping to protect pollinators and other non-target species.