Further Asian hornet sightings confirmed as NIEA hunts for nest

the Asian hornet

The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) has confirmed further sightings of the Asian hornet in the Dundonald area of Belfast, just days after the first confirmed identification of the invasive species in Northern Ireland.

The latest reports, confirmed by NIEA officials, suggest that a nest may be present in the area, raising concerns over the potential establishment of the species, which poses a serious threat to native honeybees and pollinators.

The initial hornet was captured in Dundonald last Friday by a vigilant member of the public, marking the first recorded Asian hornet in Northern Ireland. Since then, NIEA teams have been carrying out intensive monitoring, and the confirmation of further sightings has escalated the Department’s response.

Officials have now begun using ‘track and trace’ techniques to pinpoint and remove any possible nest. The process involves monitoring hornet flight paths and deploying specialist traps in strategic locations to establish the origin of the insects.

The NIEA said the operation forms part of its rapid response measures to prevent the species from becoming established.

The Asian hornet, also known as the yellow-legged hornet, originates from East Asia and is a predator of honeybees and other important pollinators, making it a significant biosecurity concern.

Members of the public are being urged to remain vigilant and to report any suspected Asian hornets, ideally with a photograph, via the Asian Hornet Watch app or through the CEDaR invasive species online recording system.

Officials have warned that suspected nests should not be disturbed, but reported immediately to ensure safe and effective removal by trained specialists.

The NIEA continues to work closely with DAERA, the National Biodiversity Data Centre, and partners in the Shared Island Biosecurity and Invasive Species Initiative to coordinate containment and monitoring efforts.