Asian hornet: Confirmed sighting in Ireland of insect that poses biodiversity threat
The insect – also known as the yellow-legged Hornet – feeds on native bees and wasps, damaging biodiversity.
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The individual sighting was made by a member of the public in Cork, and the hornet was captured.
In a statement, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage said the Asian hornet poses a "significant threat to biodiversity in Ireland", but the discovery was not a major public health risk.
"The sighting has triggered a Government-led response with the establishment of a new taskforce," the statement said.
Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O'Sullivan said hornets are a "threat to our native pollinators and our biodiversity".
"We must take even a single sighting very seriously. NPWS [National Parks and Wildlife Service] responded quickly to this report, with a team of experts rapidly tasked to monitor and survey the area," he said.
Anyone who suspects they have seen an Asian hornet is being asked to report it to the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
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Daily Mail
2 hours ago
- Daily Mail
What your bouquet says about you: Secret meanings behind flowers and the variety you should NEVER send
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According to data from Tesco, the aster flower, native to Japan, has seen sales boom by nearly 350 per cent in recent years, thanks to its symbolism of love, patience and wisdom. Of course, the flipside of flowers laden with so much meaning, there's huge potential for a faux pas if you make the wrong choice. Here's what experts say about choosing the right sort of bloom to convey your message. Asters Demand for asters in bouquets has more than quadrupled in the last two years - and it's easy to see why. The flower, which is native to Japan, is associated with love, patience, elegance, grace and wisdom - making it a simple but effective bouquet option, without any risk of causing offence. Tesco has reported that sales have grown nearly 350 per cent over the last two years, after first being listed in 2022. The asters' success has been credited to their cheap price point, bright colour and long vase life. 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White roses symbolise innocence and purity, making them a common choice for weddings. Sandra explained: 'Universally known as a symbol of love, red roses can be the perfect option for a loved one. However, pink hues of the flower can soften this message, adding layers of meaning such as gratitude and appreciation, making them a thoughtful choice for showing love and thanks beyond romance. 'Yellow roses also represent similar feelings of jealousy and betrayal. While more recently known as the 'flower of friendship', in Victorian times the bloom would be sent to accuse someone of betraying you.' Meanwhile etiquette expert Jo Hayes added: 'Long known as the bloom of love, florists are run off their feet for this lovers' favourite on February 14. 'But there are a few different meanings within the rose family that one should definitely consider.' Jo says that red roses are 'absolute perfection' for Valentine's Day, or in general to let a romantic partner know you're feeling enamoured. 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