Urgent Update: Second Asian Hornet Nest Discovered in Cork

UPDATE: A second Asian Hornet nest has been confirmed in Cobh, Ireland, following extensive searches by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) earlier today. This discovery comes just one day after the first nest was removed from a residence in Ballintemple, Cork City, marking a critical escalation in the monitoring of these invasive pests.

The NPWS announced the location of the new nest, situated approximately 12 km from the initial site, as the urgency to control this invasive species grows. A hornet was initially spotted in a home in Cobh earlier this week, prompting a focused investigation that confirmed the presence of the Asian Hornet in the area.

Experts determined that the distance between the two nests exceeds the typical foraging range for Asian Hornets, indicating the likelihood of a second nest. The first nest, removed from a sycamore tree in Ballintemple, was notably large—roughly the size of a beach ball—making its removal a complex task.

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage, and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD, described the operation as “challenging” and praised the NPWS’s swift actions. “Since the first confirmed sighting in Cork City just over a month ago, NPWS has worked tirelessly with various experts to locate nests. I commend the team for their skill and speed in safely removing the nest,” O’Sullivan stated.

As authorities confirm additional sightings of the Asian Hornet in Cork, as well as one in Dublin, they are ramping up surveillance and tracking efforts. The NPWS is collaborating with the National Biodiversity Data Centre, and local beekeepers to monitor and manage the situation effectively.

The operation to remove the Ballintemple nest adhered to strict international safety standards, conducted by the NPWS South West Division and supervised by Declan O’Donnell, the regional manager. The nest has now been sent to the National Museum of Ireland for further study, which could provide valuable insights into its origins and inform future control measures.

According to Áinle Ní Bhriain, Director of EU and International Affairs at NPWS, “The primary objective was to remove the nest safely. Studying it will enhance our understanding of this invasive species and improve our response strategies.”

The NPWS has launched a public appeal for awareness, urging residents to report any sightings of Asian Hornets along with photographs to the National Biodiversity Data Centre via www.invasives.ie.

The Asian Hornet poses a significant threat to local ecosystems and agriculture, making immediate public cooperation essential. As this situation continues to develop, residents are encouraged to stay vigilant and informed.

For real-time updates, follow our news coverage as we report on this unfolding situation in Cork and beyond.