New applications for protecting honeybee, Apis mellifera L., colonies from attacking the oriental hornet (Vespa orientalis Fab.)

Abstract

The efficiency of three modifications on hive entrance to protect honeybee colonies from the serious damage occurred by the predatory hornet, Vespa orientalis Fab. Was investigated at apiary in Giza region during hornet active season, 2012. These modifications were large or small cuboid queen excluder (LCQE & SCQE, respectively) and a piece of queen excluder (QE) covered wintering entrance of the hive door, in comparison with unprotected colonies, (control). The numbers of predatory hornets attack SCQE and control colonies was significantly higher (6.8 & 6.7 hornets/col./3 min., respectively) than those attacking colonies supplied with LCQE and winter hole with QE, (6.0 & 6.3 hornets/col./3 min., respectively). The peak of hornet onslaught recorded during October and September, (9.6 & 8.8 hornets/col./3 min., respectively). Unprotected colonies were significantly lost the highest number of bees by predation, (2.39 bees/col./3 min.) in contrast with LCQE and SCQE (0.27 & 0.29 bees/col./3 min.) treatments. Sever attack resulted in extermination of control colonies within three weeks of September and colonies of QE through October. Good success was attained using LCQE and SCQE stabled over hive entrance which resulted in 100 % survival.