How to Identify and Report the Asian Hornet in Ireland
🚨 What is the Asian Hornet?
The Asian Hornet (Vespa velutina) is an invasive predator of honeybees and other pollinators. Originally from Southeast Asia, it has rapidly spread across Europe and was first confirmed in Ireland (Cork) in August 2025.
This species poses a serious threat to Irish biodiversity, especially native honeybees (Apis mellifera mellifera). A single nest can consume thousands of pollinators, disrupting local ecosystems and agriculture.
🐝 Why It’s a Threat
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Preys on honeybees: Often waits at hive entrances to catch foragers.
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Impacts pollination: Reduced bee activity affects fruit, veg, and wildflowers.
- Hard to detect: Small nests can go unnoticed until they’re well established.
- Economic cost: Millions spent annually on control across affected countries.
Ireland remains largely free of this species, so early detection is vital.
🔍 How to Identify the Asian Hornet
Use the key ID tips below, or download our Asian Hornet ID Guide (PDF) :
✅ Key Features:
- Size: 25–30 mm (smaller than the European hornet)
- Legs: Bright yellow tips – nicknamed the “yellow-legged hornet”
- Body: Velvety dark brown/black thorax
- Abdomen: Yellow/orange band on the fourth segment
- Face: Orange/yellow with dark eyes
Comparison chart courtesy of the National Museum of Ireland
📍 Where You Might Spot One
Asian hornets are most often seen:
- Hawking at hive entrances – hovering and grabbing bees
- Feeding on ivy, fallen fruit, tree sap, or late-flowering plants
- Nesting high in trees, sheds, or under eaves
Spring/summer nests are often hidden; autumn sightings tend to increase as colonies grow.
📸 What To Do if You See One
- Do not disturb the insect or its nest
- Take a clear photo, especially of the legs and abdomen
- Report immediately via the National Biodiversity Data Centre: 👉 records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives
- Or email: alien@biodiversityireland.ie
Ireland’s Response
A national Asian Hornet Management Group (AHMG) has been established to oversee surveillance and response. It is chaired by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), with representation from:
- Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine
- National Biodiversity Data Centre
- National Museum of Ireland
- Other Irish Leading Institutions
A biosecurity alert is in place to support rapid detection and eradication.
🔗 Resources & Downloads
Asian Hornet ID Guide – Download PDF
Information gathered from https://biodiversityireland.ie/asian-hornet-government-response-underway/