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Asian Hornet Alert: Northern Ireland Fights Invasive Species
26 Apr
Summary
- An Asian hornet nest was discovered in County Down, marking the most northerly find yet.
- 34 traps are deployed within a 5km radius, and 20,000 households received informative leaflets.
- Climate change is aiding the Asian hornet's northward expansion into new territories.

Northern Ireland is actively combating the Asian hornet, an invasive species whose nest was recently found in County Down, marking the most northerly discovery in its range. This species poses a significant threat to pollinators essential for the food system.
The Northern Ireland Environment Agency (NIEA) is employing a strategy focused on public reporting via the Asian Hornet Watch app rather than direct extermination. Thirty-four specialized traps have been set up within a five-kilometer radius of the discovery site, and extensive public outreach includes information leaflets delivered to 20,000 local households.