Ballyhaunis Beekeepers Association

14/06/2026

Join us to enhance your apiary knowledge and techniques.

08/05/2026

Our new and improving beekeepers getting instruction from our very experienced Tadhg Buckley at our new apiary.

19/04/2026

Don't mow or spray your dandelions!

02/04/2026

30/03/2026

Foraging or having a rest? Native Irish trees (Alder or Fearnóg) provides it all.

27/03/2026

🆕New Guidance - Asian Hornet Nest Identification : https://shorturl.at/cKRGD

📷📝If you spot an Asian hornet embryo nest, please report it with a photo to our online recording form: www.invasives.ie/asianhornetreporter

⚠️ Important: Not all small nests belong to Asian hornets. Only report nests where you have seen an Asian hornet. Observe from a safe distance and watch for returning insects.

Why it matters:
Asian hornets are not currently known to be in Ireland. If they establish here, they could pose a serious threat to honeybees and other pollinators. Between March and April, mated queens could be expected to build their embryo nests.

How to identify an embryo nest:
✅ Small and spherical like a tennis ball (5–10 cm in diameter)
✅ Single entrance hole at the base
✅ Built in spring by a lone queen

Some places you might spot an embryo nest:
🌳 Brambles and hedgerows
🛖 Garden sheds

🚫 DO NOT destroy nests: they may belong to native wasps, which are essential for pest control and pollination.

Asian hornets are often mistaken for these look-alike species in Ireland:
🐝 Greater horntail wasps
🐝 Common wasps
🐝 Other wood wasps

Learn more about Asian hornet: www.invasives.ie/asianhornet

For honeybee hive concerns email: [email protected]

25/03/2026

Beekeeping course with Dr Helen Mooney

23/03/2026

https://nativeirishbeesanctuary.com/

22/03/2026

Spring time and foraging on native Irish willow

11/03/2026

Please email us if you are interested in attending our beginners beekeeping course!
[email protected]

Beginners' Beekeeping Course in Ballyhaunis happening Saturday & Sunday March 21st-22nd 2026