Asian giant hornets, known for their large size and aggressive behavior, have been observed using a unique strategy against bee colonies. Rather than attacking directly, they hover in stationary flight near beehives, a behavior that has been shown to paralyze entire colonies. This tactic disrupts the bees’ usual foraging activities, preventing them from gathering food. The impact is especially severe in autumn, a time when bees should be working hard to build up their honey reserves for the winter. Even a small number of these hornets can cause significant damage, leading to the loss of up to a third of a colony’s workforce and nearly 4 kg of honey. Studies by the ADAPI (Agency for the Protection of the Environment and the Fight Against Waste) have demonstrated that just two Asian giant hornets hovering near a hive can severely affect bee populations and honey production. When the number of hornets increases to an average of five per hive, the consequences can be devastating, leading to the collapse of all colonies in a test apiary. This pressure is most intense during September and October, when bee colonies are at their most vulnerable. During this time, Asian giant hornet nests can grow to include up to 2,000 individuals, coinciding with the critical period when bees need to prepare for winter. The National Museum of Natural History is currently testing a citizen science initiative to better understand and map the seasonal pressure exerted by these hornets. This period of heightened activity generally lasts from September to November, and its effects can be long-lasting. The autumn blockage is particularly dangerous because it prevents bees from building up their honey reserves and producing winter bees, which are crucial for survival during colder months. In the Cévennes National Park, officials note that this pressure can cause a gradual weakening of bee colonies, a problem that may not become evident until the winter season. The French National Beekeeping Union describes the Asian giant hornet as a double threat. Not only do they directly prey on bees, but they also cause behavioral paralysis, disrupting the colonies’ ability to function normally. Some years have seen a significant rise in attacks, which is linked to milder winters and springs that favor the hornets' proliferation. To address this issue, various devices have been developed, such as mesh covers and electric harps, which are designed to reduce the pressure on bee colonies during the critical autumn period. However, these measures do not fully eliminate the risk, underscoring the ongoing challenge of managing the coexistence between this invasive species and French beekeeping.