Public urged to remain vigilant as nest containing 'destructive' Asian hornets is located

Efforts are underway to destroy and safely remove an Asian Hornet nest which been located in Ireland. 

The nest was found at a location on the south side of Cork city, following a confirmed sighting of an Asian Hornet in County Cork on August 13. 

The species has been described by the National Department of Biodiversity as a “threat to biodiversity” and the confirmed sighting earlier this month had generated significant concerns.

A high-level task force was established earlier this month in the hope of locating the nest which was found following intensive monitoring and survey activities.

Commenting this Thursday, Minister of State for Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan said: “While this finding is worrying, international experience shows that if we act quickly, we can prevent this destructive species from establishing in Ireland. In this case, the team of experts led by the NPWS [National Parks and Wildlife Service], quickly identified the location of the nest. Work is now underway to safely remove it.”

The winged insect preys on bumble bees and other wild pollinators. 

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While the nest has been found, members of the public are being asked to remain vigilant and to report any suspected sightings through the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s Alien Watch reporting portal and to send photos, where possible.

A report by the European Scientific Forum on Invasive Alien Species said that the species “are defensive” but “they may be considered a nuisance to recreational activities” and can “cause mental and physical health issues”. 

Members of the public are being advised the Asian Hornet can be easily confused with native species such as the giant wood wasp, the dark giant horsefly and the common wasp.

The National Department of Biodiversity has stated that the hornet is not generally aggressive, but may sting if provoked.

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