Asian Hornet Guidance
We will be updating this page as new information becomes available.
The aim is to provide you with easy access to information should you think you have sighted an Asian Hornet in Ireland and some guidance on what to do.
Most of this information is based on information generously given by Devon Beekeepers Association
The aim is to provide you with easy access to information should you think you have sighted an Asian Hornet in Ireland and some guidance on what to do.
Most of this information is based on information generously given by Devon Beekeepers Association
Guidance for Beekeepers
Be Prepared – Contact your neighbouring beekeepers (including non-members) and discuss plans for a local sighting of an Asian Hornet, using this guidance where appropriate
Have a laminated copy of the National Biodiversity Centre Asian Hornet Identification Guide attached to underside of one of your hive’s roof so it is readily available in your apiary
Have a laminated copy of the National Biodiversity Centre Asian Hornet Identification Guide attached to underside of one of your hive’s roof so it is readily available in your apiary
| asian-hornet.pdf |
Action to be taken on Sighting of Asian Hornet
- Asian hornet is not known to be present in Ireland but please become familiar with its identity and if you suspect you have seen an Asian hornet please report it immediately to the National Biodiversity Data Centre with a photo to http://records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives or e-mail invasives@biodiversityireland.ie. They will take no further action until evidence (Asian Hornet or Photograph) of the Asian Hornet is produced.
- Also report to Dr Rachel Wisdom:-Entomologist, Pesticides, Plant Health and Seed Testing Laboratories, Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Backweston Campus, Celbridge, Co. Kildare, Ireland.The specimens can be killed by placing them in domestic freezer overnight. If collecting a sample please take all necessary precautions as hornets can sting. Phone or email before sending specimen Phone: 01‐5058600.Email: beekeeping@agriculture.gov.ie. Advise on how to take a sample of the Asian Hornet please go to How to take an Asian Hornet Sample
- Report to Branch Point of Contact for Asian Hornet sighting
- Be part of/lead a surveillance team from Branch members.
- Be aware of how to recognise Asian Hornet – use Vespa velutina Comparison Guide below
| vespavelutina_comparisonidguide_ireland-2.pdf |
- Ensure you have suitable equipment with you
- Work in pairs
- Ensure records are kept of sightings and other relevant information
- Do not release details of location or personal details – no press disclosure
- Be sensitive to land ownership & general public
- Act with caution & care
- Take video recordings and obtain sample where possible
- Report & send evidence to the National Biodiversity Data Centre with a photo to http://records.biodiversityireland.ie/record/invasives or e-mail invasives@biodiversityireland.ie
- If appropriate start noting flight lines.
More information
Book by Professor Stephen John Martin on the Asian Hornet in our library
