NIEA urges vigilance in NI after sighting of Asian hornet in Cork
Members of the public and beekeepers in Northern Ireland are asked to be vigilant following a recent sighting of an Asian hornet in the Republic of Ireland.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), at the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, confirmed a recent sighting and subsequent capture of an Asian hornet in the Cork area.
The Asian hornet is a highly effective predator of honeybees, wasps and other important pollinators, such as hoverflies.
NIEA said that the huge size of its colonies, which can consist of up to 10,000 individuals per season, means that they can rapidly decimate bee numbers.
Due to its aggressive nature and feeding habits, it could have a serious impact on native insect biodiversity and on pollination more widely.
“This recent sighting acts as a timely reminder of the potential for the Asian hornet to reach Northern Ireland," a spokesperson for NIEA said.
"This is the second confirmed record of Asian hornet in Ireland, with the National Parks and Wildlife Service continuing its monitoring to determine whether this is an isolated individual or part of a larger population.
"While there have been no confirmed sightings in Northern Ireland to date, a precautionary approach is essential here.
"Members of the public and local beekeepers are asked to remain vigilant for sightings of the Asian hornet.
"Early detection and nest destruction are critical to achieving eradication following any confirmed sighting," they added.
NIEA is working in partnership with NPWS and the National Biodiversity Data Centre to address the threat posed by the insect.
This is part of the All-Island Biosecurity and Invasive Species Initiative, which NIEA said "will help ensure that the island of Ireland is well prepared".
To allow for a rapid and proactive response to any confirmed sightings in Northern Ireland, NIEA published the Northern Ireland Rapid Response Contingency Plan for Asian Hornet.
This plan, which is currently under review, can be found on the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) website.
Suspect sightings in Northern Ireland should be reported alongside a photograph of the insect to NIEA, via the Asian Hornet Watch app.
The public are reminded to never disturb or try to deal with a suspect Asian hornet nest but report it immediately.
