Asian hornets' nest dismantled from urban location in Cork city through an intricate procedure
In a significant development for Ireland's wildlife, the Asian hornet has been confirmed in two separate locations: Cobh, Co Cork, and Inchicore, Dublin. This invasive species, known for its destructive impact on native pollinators and commercial bee hives, was first spotted in Cork city.
The alarm about the Asian hornets was raised on July 31st, and a subsequent operation to remove the hornets was conducted for the first time in Ireland. The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), along with the Irish Pest Control Association, worked tirelessly to locate the nest in Cork, with the assistance of an expert from the UK Animal Health Agency.
The nest removed from Cork city is the first Asian hornet nest ever examined in Ireland. It is estimated that a single nest can consume up to 11kg of insects in a single season. The nest has been transferred to the National Museum of Ireland for examination, where insights about its origins and the species' behaviour in Ireland will be gained.
Meanwhile, the hornet in Inchicore is a single sterile female Asian hornet, and it's possible that she is not linked to a nest. Members of the public are asked to report any sightings of the Asian hornet, along with a photograph, to the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
Intensive surveying and track-and-trace activities are being conducted to determine if there is any further activity. The NPWS-led taskforce, the Asian Hornet Management Group, will continue to monitor the situation in areas where sightings have been reported.
The Asian hornet was accidentally introduced to France via a shipment of pottery from China in 2004. Its arrival in Ireland raises concerns about the potential spread of this invasive species, which could have a devastating impact on native pollinators and commercial bee hives.
Minister of State for Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan stated, "The discovery of the Asian hornet in Ireland is a serious matter. We are taking all necessary steps to ensure that we can effectively respond to this threat and protect our native pollinators."
Stay tuned for updates as we continue to monitor the situation and gain more insights about the Asian hornet in Ireland. If you spot an Asian hornet, please report it to the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Together, we can help protect Ireland's wildlife.
