Cork: The Irish government has acted swiftly to eliminate an invasive Asian hornet nest discovered in Cork City, following growing concerns over the threat to Ireland’s native pollinators and commercial beehives.
The first confirmed sighting of the Asian hornet in Cork was reported a month ago. Since then, the National Biodiversity Data Centre (NBDC), the National Museum of Ireland (NMI), local beekeepers, and the Department of Biodiversity have worked in coordination to track and remove the nest.
On Wednesday, officials from the Forestry and Wildlife Service, equipped with protective gear, successfully removed the nest with assistance from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Authorities described the operation as the country’s first official Asian hornet nest removal, carried out at a cost of several thousand euros.
Beekeeping associations have also urged the government to remain vigilant, stressing that even a single Asian hornet nest poses a serious risk to Ireland’s ecosystem, with potential consequences for pollination, biodiversity, and honey production.
Officials have assured the public that monitoring efforts will continue to ensure early detection and rapid response to any further sightings.
Irish Samachar English News
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