Killer nest found in Cork city

An Asian hornet nest has been discovered in a sycamore tree in Cork city, weeks after the invasive insect was first spotted in the area.

The discovery by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) comes after one insect was detected on the “southern side of Cork city” last month, Minister of State for Nature and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan confirmed.

Earlier in August, NPWS captured an Asian hornet in Cork, the second time the species has ever been recorded in Ireland.

Although NPWS did not disclose the exact location, it is understood the capture took place close to where this week’s nest was found.

The insect, also called the yellow-legged hornet, is a serious threat to Ireland’s biodiversity. Even one nest can wipe out local honeybee populations.

That sighting and capture prompted the creation of the Asian Hornet Management Group, chaired by NPWS.

The nest has now been removed and destroyed, with further tests to be carried out to trace its origin.

Minister O’Sullivan described the find as serious but said swift action could prevent the species from taking hold in Ireland. “The Asian hornet poses a significant threat to pollinators and the sighting of one earlier this month was concerning for all of us invested in protecting our biodiversity. While this finding is worrying, international experience shows that if we act quickly, we can prevent this destructive species from establishing in Ireland.”

He also paid tribute to NPWS staff, Cork City Council, local beekeepers and members of the public who reported sightings. “I would like to thank members of the public, who reported sightings and sent photographs to the National Biodiversity Data Centre, as well as those who facilitated access to their land over the past few weeks,” he said.

Surveying and monitoring in Cork will continue until experts are confident there is no further activity. The public is urged to report any suspected sightings at invasives.ie.