Invasive Species Ireland

Muntjac deer are small deer, weighing up to 19kg and approximately 50 cm high at the shoulder and chestnut brown in colour. Muntjac are selective browers of shrubs and woodland ground flora preventing seed regeneration of important conservation species such as blue bells.

A specimen of this deer has recently been recorded in Ireland. Watch out for muntjac and report all sightings, suspected tracks, and collisions with vehicles.

For more information on this and other non native deer species please see the Most Unwanted Potential Terrestrial species. Download the Non Native Deer information flier.

A colonial sea squirt from the Didemnum (pronounced die-DEM-num) group has recently been found fouling boats and marina structures in Ireland. This particular species of Didemnum is fast-growing and has the potential to out compete and smother a large number of native species. The threats posed are of concern to conservationists, aquaculture managers, and fisheries.

Watch out for this species and report all sightings.

For more information on this species please see the Most Unwanted Established Marine species.

A specimen of the harlequin ladybird has been found in a consignment of celery hearts from Cambridgeshire on sale at Tesco’s store, Lisburn (6 November 2007). 

Please report all sightings if you see anything resembling this insect in imported vegetables or other goods. Be vigilant.  This pest could be coming to a store near you. 

For more information and how to identify the harlequin ladybird please follow this link to the Ladybirds of Ireland website. Also see the harlequin ladybird information page on the Potential Invaders section of the Most Unwanted.