CORK, IRELAND – A verified sighting of an Asian hornet in Cork City has triggered a biosecurity alert, marking only the second confirmed presence of the invasive species in Ireland.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) confirmed that the insect – also known as the yellow-legged hornet – was captured after being spotted by a member of the public and reported via the National Biodiversity Data Centre’s website. Entomologists at both the NPWS and the National Museum of Ireland verified the identification before launching a rapid response.
While the Asian hornet poses minimal direct public health risk, it is considered a serious threat to Ireland’s biodiversity. A single nest can decimate honeybee populations and negatively impact pollination, endangering native ecosystems.
Rapid Response and Monitoring
Following the August 12 capture, NPWS teams began extensive monitoring in the Cork area to determine whether the insect was an isolated individual or part of a larger population. No nests have been found so far, but officials have warned that vigilance will be essential over the coming weeks.
To coordinate efforts, the government has established the Asian Hornet Management Group (AHMG), chaired by the NPWS and involving the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, the National Biodiversity Data Centre, and the National Museum of Ireland. Local communities, businesses, and beekeeping associations have been briefed on how to recognise and report the species.
Officials Urge Public Vigilance
Áinle Ní Bhriain, EU and International Affairs Director at the NPWS, stressed the importance of early detection:
“An effective rapid response and public awareness is key to our approach. Working with partners across the island of Ireland ensures we are prepared for any increased threat.”
Minister of State for Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, echoed the call for public cooperation:
“Asian hornets are a threat to our native pollinators and biodiversity. We must take even a single sighting very seriously. Members of the public are our eyes on the ground.”
Public Advice
Authorities have urged people not to disturb or capture suspected Asian hornets, as they may sting if provoked. Instead, sightings should be reported via the Alien Watch reporting portal of the National Biodiversity Data Centre. Submissions should include photographs, location details, and, where possible, specimens for expert analysis.
The NPWS also advised that Asian hornets are often mistaken for native insects like the giant woodwasp, dark giant horsefly, and common wasp, making photographic evidence particularly valuable.
Background
Native to Southeast Asia, the Asian hornet was first recorded in Europe in France in 2004 and has since spread to several EU countries and the UK. Ireland’s first confirmed sighting occurred in 2021.
