Three models, each for a specific application:
VFT160 — the most complete transmitter for intensive fieldwork. Weighs only 160mg, lasts 32 hours at full speed and another 3 days in slow mode. Range up to 4 kilometers via drone receiver. Recoverable via magnet or selective trap. Minimum wasp weight: 300mg.
VFT110 — the sleek all-rounder. Only 110mg, battery life up to 150 hours — ideal for long-term monitoring or migration research over multiple days. Recoverable via magnet or selective trap.
VFT80 — the smallest of the range. Only 80mg, allowing lighter individuals to be tagged: lighter wasp species, but also honeybees — think drones for flight and migration research. Lasts more than 12 hours. Not magnetic, but recoverable via selective trap or butterfly net. This model opens the door to a wide range of entomological research beyond invasive species control.
All three are rechargeable, reusable, equipped with a unique ID and compatible with the VespaFinder app. Installation without anesthesia, in 5 seconds.
Recovery — why it matters
A transmitter costs between €49 and €98. Per detection, you effectively pay only €2 to €5 — depending on the model and number of times reused. The more often you recover the transmitter, the lower the cost per nest.
Recovery can happen in three ways: via an integrated magnet (VFT160 and VFT110), via a selective trap, or via a butterfly net.
Reusability is also future-proof: all single-use electronics are gradually disappearing from the European market due to the EU Battery Regulation (2023/1542). Disposable transmitters are no longer a sustainable option.
Detection - from smartphone to drone
VespaFinder app: anyone with an Android or iOS smartphone can join the search. If you receive a signal, all other users nearby will see it too. Ideal for group detection on foot or by bike. Range: 350–550m open field.
Smartphone Focus Antenna: makes your smartphone directional and significantly amplifies reception. Particularly useful when a nest is in shrubbery or a tree and you want to protect the user. Patent pending. Range: 600-1000m open field.
Handheld Receiver (XR): the ultrasensitive directional antenna for systematic fieldwork. Signal strength displayed via 16 LEDs and pitch. Easy to mount on a vehicle. Range: 1200-2200m open field.
Drone Receiver (XR): the most advanced detection tool. Includes software for the DJI Matrice 4 Enterprise series. Orientation adjustable. Range up to 4 kilometers. Searching from above dramatically increases effectiveness, both in speed and coverage.