What is the Asian Hornet?

The Asian Hornet is an invasive non-native species. It was introduced in Europe in 2004 (France) where it has settled and from where it spread rapidly across Europe. In April 2021, a female specimen was found in Ireland ‘alive but dying’. As it stands now, Ireland is under threat of being invaded by the Asian Hornet.

The Asian Hornet is a wasp: female hornets can sting if they feel threatened and thus can cause potential harm to people. The Asian Hornet is nearly double the size of the common wasp or honey bee. 

How to recognise an Asian Hornet

Where to see an Asian Hornet

The Asian Hornet feeds on nectar and a protein-rich diet is served to their larvae. They can be seen on a variety of flowering plants, e.g. ivy, trees with leaves covered with aphids, e.g. willow, damaged fermenting fruits, e.g. grapes, cadavers and fish, around bee colonies, etc.

Their nests can be found in low level patios, garages and hedges, and high in trees and on buildings. 

Report any sightings of an Asian Hornet

For safety reasons, do not interfere under any circumstances with suspected Asian Hornets.

Take one or more photographs of the Asian Hornet or its nest, remember the exact location and report to www.biodiversityireland.ie. On the homepage, select ‘start recording’, select ‘invasive species’, and report the sighting.
For any support or questions, contact us on https://asianhornets.ie