Members of the public are being asked to remain vigilant following the discovery of an Asian hornet in the Ringaskiddy area of Co. Cork.
The insect was photographed and captured by a member of the public, who notified the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
The sighting prompted monitoring by National Parks and Wildlife Service conservation rangers. The Department said no evidence of further activity associated with the sighting had been found.
Minister for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan said early detection is important in preventing the invasive species from becoming established and threatening pollinators.
The public is encouraged to photograph suspected sightings safely and report them to the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
People should not attempt to handle hornets. Widespread trapping is not recommended because of the risk to native insects.
Suspected sightings can be submitted through the official Asian hornet reporting form.
