On the 24th September, an Asian hornet was spotted by a member of the public at Ringaskiddy, Co. Cork and reported to the National Biodiversity Data Centre via the Asian Hornet Reporter.
The sighting and subsequent capture triggered a rapid response plan led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Following a period of monitoring, another hornet was detected, confirming the presence of a nest. For the first time in Ireland, miniature tracking transmitters were attached to hornets, to rapidly trace and pinpoint the location of the nest. Invasive Species Programme Manager, John Kelly, and Head of Digital Services, Jon Hawkins, of the National Biodiversity Data Centre, were on site to assist with the operation. The nest was located and controlled, preventing further spread of this invasive species which poses a serious threat to native pollinators.
Early detection is essential to preventing the establishment of Asian hornet in Ireland. The public are asked to remain vigilant and report suspected Asian Hornet sightings immediately with a photograph through the Asian Hornet Reporter.
