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Further sightings of Asian hornets confirmed in Belfast as 'existence of nest' possible
Northern Ireland Environment Agency uses track and trace after multiple Asian hornet sightings suggest a nest, posing a threat to local pollinators and biodiversity.
- On Wednesday, October 15, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency confirmed further Asian hornet sightings in the Dundonald area of Belfast and said reports suggest a nest, prompting NIEA officials to use 'track and trace' methods.
- A capture in Dundonald on October 10 contradicted hopes the insect was solitary, with Andrew Muir, Minister for Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs, saying `This is a harmful species that I do not wish to see becoming established in Northern Ireland as it presents a serious threat to both biosecurity and local ecology, particularly valuable pollinating insects.`
- Described by officials as measuring about 2cm, the Asian hornet is mostly black and brown with an orange face and tail, preying on more than 1,000 species including honey bees and other pollinators.
- DAERA advised that the public is urged to report suspect insects with photos via the Asian Hornet Watch app or CEDaR, and suspected nests should not be disturbed before removal.
- The pattern of sightings shows the Dublin sighting and removals in Cork form part of a wider pattern in Ireland and southern counties of England, while the Climate Change Advisory Council warned of growing biodiversity threats.
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Total News Sources14
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center4Last UpdatedBias Distribution67% Center
Bias Distribution
- 67% of the sources are Center
67% Center
L 33%
C 67%
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