Minister appeals for vigilance as yet another Asian hornet captured in Cork

The capture of a potentially deadly Asian hornet in Cork has resulted in a call for vigilance made by the Minister for Nature.

An Asian hornet was spotted, photographed and captured last week by a member of the public in Ringaskiddy and the National Biodiversity Centre was quickly notified.

The hornet, which typically hails from southeast Asia, has been identified on numerous occasions in Ireland since the species first arrived in Europe in 2004. Two hornets were spotted in Cork last year.

Packed with venom, a single sting to an individual who is allergic to wasps can prove fatal. Non-fatal stings can cause organ failure, rashes and nausea.

The sighting of the single hornet in Ringaskiddy triggered “a rapid response plan” which was led by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

“NPWS conservation rangers have been surveying and monitoring the area extensively since the sighting was reported, using the methods which helped us to locate and remove two nests in Cork last year,” said Minister for Nature, Christopher O’Sullivan.

“I am pleased to report that there is no evidence of any further activity associated with this sighting," 

he added.

The National Museum of Ireland is currently examining the specimen and the risk it poses to Ireland.

Alongside potential threats to humans, the hornet can eviscerate entire beehives and is seen as a critical threat to pollinators.

“It is important that we stay alert. That’s why I am asking members of the public to remain vigilant and keep an eye out for Asian hornet activity in their gardens, and other outdoor areas,” Mr O’Sullivan said.

“Early detection is key if we are to prevent this species from gaining a foothold in Ireland and damaging our pollinators and ecosystems.”

If members spot the hornet, which is only an inch long and has a distinctive orange-yellow face, they are urged to report it to the online Asian hornet reporting system managed by the National Biodiversity Data Centre.