Cork

Second Asian Hornet Nest Discovered in Cork, Sightings Confirmed in Dublin raise biodiversity Concerns

Cork & Dublin, Ireland – A second asian hornet nest has been located in County Cork, following the initial revelation earlier this month, while a confirmed sighting in Dublin is raising alarm bells amongst beekeepers adn biodiversity experts. the invasive species,known for its predatory behavior,poses a significant threat to both honeybees and wider insect populations.

The news emerged as attendees at Dublin’s Phoenix Park Biodiversity Festival and honey Show expressed concern over the potential impact of the hornets.Leif Barry, head guide at the park’s visitor center, explained the rapid spread of the species, noting its arrival in Europe in 2004. “It’s something that we have to be vigilant for,” he said, adding that the hornet’s adaptability and lack of natural predators in Ireland are major concerns.”It can impact on bumblebees, on hoverflies, on butterflies and then of course, from a commercial point of view, it can impact on the honeybees.”

Frankie de Dobbelaere, a member of the Louth Beekeepers Association who has completed hornet eradication training in belgium and tracked hornets in the Netherlands, emphasized the broader ecological implications. “It’s not only a concern for beekeepers, but also for our biodiversity – as one such nest can consume up to 12 or more kilograms of insects,” she stated last month.

Authorities are currently conducting DNA analysis and genome sequencing to determine the origin of the insects and assess how well established they are, including whether queens have settled. This details will help pinpoint the source of the invasion and inform eradication efforts.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC) are urging the public to report any suspected sightings. Individuals who believe they have spotted an Asian hornet are advised to photograph it, if possible, and contact either the NPWS or the NBDC via their online reporting tool: https://records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives#7/53.455/-8.016.While generally not aggressive,Asian hornets may sting if provoked and should not be approached. They are often mistaken for other non-invasive species like the giant woodwasp, dark giant horsefly, and common wasp. A key identifying feature is the distinctive yellow or orange colouring on their legs and part of their abdomen, earning them the option name “yellow-legged hornets.”

The situation underscores the importance of initiatives like the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, championed by the National Biodiversity Data centre, which aims to improve pollinator habitats and mitigate the risk of extinction for Ireland’s wild bee species.