A new report published by RSPB Northern Ireland and BirdWatch Ireland has identified alarming declines in a number of bird populations across the island of Ireland.
Of 199 species assessed, 25 have been allocated to the ‘Red List’, which names bird populations that require urgent action to secure their future on the island.
The wildlife organisations have published - ‘Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland: 2008-2013’ - in the scientific journal Irish Birds - their second review of the state of native bird populations across the island of Ireland (the first was published in 1999).
The ‘traffic light’ system makes it easy to identify those birds most in need of conservation action. Using information collected by professionals and amateur birdwatchers, scientists from the two organisations have allocated bird species to Red, Amber or Green Lists. The ‘Red List’ includes bird populations that have declined by over 70% and those that are threatened across the world.
Action across the island tends to be focused on those species that benefit from direct conservation intervention, such as the corncrake and lapwing. For others, such as the quail, other measures are taken to help often very small populations.
Commenting, a co-author of the report, Dr James Robinson from the RSPB, said - “This report confirms that we must redouble our efforts to secure the future for many of our most threatened birds. Most of the birds that appear on the ‘Red List’ have suffered from long-term changes to or loss of the habitats they need to survive.
“However, for some migratory birds, we believe milder winters on the continent are reducing the numbers that visit the island of Ireland in the colder months of the year. This is the first time that changes in climate have been identified as a factor leading to appearance on the ‘Red List’."
Dr. Stephen Newton, co-author of the report from BirdWatch Ireland, added - “Since our last report in 1999, the situation has worsened for many of Ireland’s birds. Twenty-five species are now allocated to the Red List, with seven added in the time since 1999. We will lose many of these birds from our shores if concerted and immediate action is not taken. It is only a few short years since the corn bunting went extinct as a breeding species here. Many others are now in danger of following suit.
“Of particular concern are our seabirds, migratory waterfowl and farmland birds. Iconic species such as the barn owl, corncrake, curlew and yellowhammer all face an uncertain future. However, action to help many of these birds is being put in place by BirdWatch Ireland, the RSPB and government agencies. We believe that by working together across this island, the problems faced by our most threatened birds can be overcome to allow recovery."
The news is not all bad. Both the roseate tern and hen harrier have moved from the ‘Red List’ to the ‘Amber List’, demonstrating that nature conservation can work. Both species have benefited from the work of RSPB Northern Ireland, BirdWatch Ireland and the government bodies that are charged with protecting our environment. Others, such as the corncrake and yellowhammer, should follow suit as work continues to improve their fortunes.
www.buckplanning.ie
Showing posts with label biodiversity and planning. Show all posts
Showing posts with label biodiversity and planning. Show all posts
Tuesday, 21 October 2008
Saturday, 1 March 2008
A city of nightlife and wildlife
We often think that we have to go beyond a city's boundaries to experience the joys of nature. But with almost 50 per cent of Dublin made up of green spaces - 25 per cent in private gardens and 20 per cent in public parks - this is not the case with the capital, writes Sylvia Thompson .
"People take for granted what they can see in their gardens and in the parks of the city, and raising awareness of the biodiversity in the city is something we will be concentrating on over the next five years," says Mairéad Stack, biodiversity officer with Dublin City Council.
The recent publication of the Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan 2008 - 2012 is a marker of the council's commitment to conserving and protecting wildlife in the city.
And a glance at the priority species, habitats and natural heritage in the report is a wake-up call to all urban-dwellers to the natural wonders on their doorsteps.
For instance, bats are a priority species. "Ireland is a refuge for bats and eight of the 10 species in this country can be found in Dublin," explains Stack. Keen to dispel myths about mammal, including that they fly into your hair, she instead reminds us that a bat will eat up to 3,500 midges in one evening.
"It's also important to remember that bats are what's called a 'keystone' species in that when we have bats, we also have the insects and the semi-natural grasslands that support them," says Stack.
THE GRASSLANDS ARE another priority. Found on parts of North Bull Island, they have aesthetic and ecological significance due to the variety of grasses and wildflowers they contain.
North Bull Island and other areas along Dublin Bay are birdwatchers' paradises if you consider the huge numbers of waterbirds that winter there.
In fact, 6,000 wildfowl, 24,000 waders and 6,000 gulls, are among the many waterbirds that spend the winter months along the north Dublin coastline.
Dublin Bay is also visited by up to 12,000 roosting terns from late July to early September. A management plan to protect the wetlands on North Bull Island, and the species it supports, is another key feature of the plan.
Wildlife expert Eanna Ní Lamhna says Dublin has an abundance of wonderful habitats and species that people don't know about.
In her forthcoming book, Wild Dublin (O'Brien Press), she encourages people to take trips by Dart to visit coastline areas, to walk along the canal and river banks and to wander through one of the 120 parks that are inside the M50.
"There are 32 species of mammals in Ireland and you'll find 28 of them in Dublin city," she explains. "For instance, people sometimes talk about seeing a fox walking up Grafton Street in the middle of the night, which is probably one of those living in the provost's garden in Trinity College on his way up to St Stephen's Green."
Foxes are now more common in the city than in the country, with an average density of one fox family group per square kilometre. Some areas have four to five times that density. Fox dens are commonly found in gardens, under sheds and in wrecked cars.
Ní Lamhna also points to other interesting mammals that are perhaps harder to spot as they shy away from humans.
"There are rabbits and hares, stoats and badgers in the city. And those fishing in the morning and evening times will see otters in the Tolka, Dodder and Liffey rivers," she adds.
Moving into the heart of the city, Ní Lamhna suggests Blessington Basin, which is about 10 minutes walk north of O'Connell Street, as a fascinating haven for wildlife.
"It's a wildlife park with a pond in it which is a tributary from the Royal Canal," she explains. "You'll find tufted duck breeding there and if you're really quiet, you might see a hedgehog. And you'll find two-spotted ladybirds there which are city ladybirds and smaller than the seven-spotted ladybirds that you'll find in the countryside."
ANOTHER SURPRISING wildlife hotspot is Gallanstown Basin in Park West business complex. "It holds a pocket of important wildlife and is a great source of entertainment for the office workers," says Stack. "There is a pair of swans who nest there and there is a high density of the glutinous snail, which has been wiped out across Europe. Also, the settling pond is a wonderful wetland, which is home to nesting birds and waterfowl and 40 species of plants and flowers including orchids."
Urban wetlands are also priority habitats in the action plan.
As well as getting out and enjoying nature in the city, Dublin's inhabitants will have many opportunities to get involved in protecting the plants, animals, fish (salmon and trout species feature on the priority species list) and the places they live in over the next five years.
"We still don't know half the species we have and don't have in the city," says Stack. "And we will be conducting surveys to monitor the loss of species. For instance, this year, we will monitor butterfly species and numbers in Dublin. Butterflies are an indicator species for climate change and habitat change, so our survey will show any changes in the distribution across the city and the impacts of climate change and habitat change."
Fourteen of the 32 species of butterflies in Ireland can be found in Dublin. Finally, back to the private gardens, which is where most people enjoy brief moments of watching birds, butterflies and other insects.
If you're keen to encourage more wildlife into your garden, check out how to maintain a wildlife-friendly area on the biodiversity section of the council's website, www.dublincity.ie
WATCHING CITY WILDLIFE
Ladybirds
Most ladybirds have seven spots, but in gardens in Dublin city there is a smaller species which has only two spots. Most people think these ladybirds are baby ladybirds that will grow up to have seven spots but they are, in fact, a different species.
Orchids
These fragile and beautiful flowers can be found in semi-natural grasslands in various parts of Dublin city, including North Bull Island.
Red squirrels
Up to 30 years ago in Dublin, red squirrels were commonplace. Since then, the large grey squirrels have taken over and red squirrels can now only be found in parts of Killiney, Dalkey and in St Anne's Park, Raheny.
Dolphins and seals
Bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises can be seen in the liffey close to Dublin Port. Grey seals are a familiar sight in Dun Laoighre and common seals breed on Bull Island.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
"People take for granted what they can see in their gardens and in the parks of the city, and raising awareness of the biodiversity in the city is something we will be concentrating on over the next five years," says Mairéad Stack, biodiversity officer with Dublin City Council.
The recent publication of the Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan 2008 - 2012 is a marker of the council's commitment to conserving and protecting wildlife in the city.
And a glance at the priority species, habitats and natural heritage in the report is a wake-up call to all urban-dwellers to the natural wonders on their doorsteps.
For instance, bats are a priority species. "Ireland is a refuge for bats and eight of the 10 species in this country can be found in Dublin," explains Stack. Keen to dispel myths about mammal, including that they fly into your hair, she instead reminds us that a bat will eat up to 3,500 midges in one evening.
"It's also important to remember that bats are what's called a 'keystone' species in that when we have bats, we also have the insects and the semi-natural grasslands that support them," says Stack.
THE GRASSLANDS ARE another priority. Found on parts of North Bull Island, they have aesthetic and ecological significance due to the variety of grasses and wildflowers they contain.
North Bull Island and other areas along Dublin Bay are birdwatchers' paradises if you consider the huge numbers of waterbirds that winter there.
In fact, 6,000 wildfowl, 24,000 waders and 6,000 gulls, are among the many waterbirds that spend the winter months along the north Dublin coastline.
Dublin Bay is also visited by up to 12,000 roosting terns from late July to early September. A management plan to protect the wetlands on North Bull Island, and the species it supports, is another key feature of the plan.
Wildlife expert Eanna Ní Lamhna says Dublin has an abundance of wonderful habitats and species that people don't know about.
In her forthcoming book, Wild Dublin (O'Brien Press), she encourages people to take trips by Dart to visit coastline areas, to walk along the canal and river banks and to wander through one of the 120 parks that are inside the M50.
"There are 32 species of mammals in Ireland and you'll find 28 of them in Dublin city," she explains. "For instance, people sometimes talk about seeing a fox walking up Grafton Street in the middle of the night, which is probably one of those living in the provost's garden in Trinity College on his way up to St Stephen's Green."
Foxes are now more common in the city than in the country, with an average density of one fox family group per square kilometre. Some areas have four to five times that density. Fox dens are commonly found in gardens, under sheds and in wrecked cars.
Ní Lamhna also points to other interesting mammals that are perhaps harder to spot as they shy away from humans.
"There are rabbits and hares, stoats and badgers in the city. And those fishing in the morning and evening times will see otters in the Tolka, Dodder and Liffey rivers," she adds.
Moving into the heart of the city, Ní Lamhna suggests Blessington Basin, which is about 10 minutes walk north of O'Connell Street, as a fascinating haven for wildlife.
"It's a wildlife park with a pond in it which is a tributary from the Royal Canal," she explains. "You'll find tufted duck breeding there and if you're really quiet, you might see a hedgehog. And you'll find two-spotted ladybirds there which are city ladybirds and smaller than the seven-spotted ladybirds that you'll find in the countryside."
ANOTHER SURPRISING wildlife hotspot is Gallanstown Basin in Park West business complex. "It holds a pocket of important wildlife and is a great source of entertainment for the office workers," says Stack. "There is a pair of swans who nest there and there is a high density of the glutinous snail, which has been wiped out across Europe. Also, the settling pond is a wonderful wetland, which is home to nesting birds and waterfowl and 40 species of plants and flowers including orchids."
Urban wetlands are also priority habitats in the action plan.
As well as getting out and enjoying nature in the city, Dublin's inhabitants will have many opportunities to get involved in protecting the plants, animals, fish (salmon and trout species feature on the priority species list) and the places they live in over the next five years.
"We still don't know half the species we have and don't have in the city," says Stack. "And we will be conducting surveys to monitor the loss of species. For instance, this year, we will monitor butterfly species and numbers in Dublin. Butterflies are an indicator species for climate change and habitat change, so our survey will show any changes in the distribution across the city and the impacts of climate change and habitat change."
Fourteen of the 32 species of butterflies in Ireland can be found in Dublin. Finally, back to the private gardens, which is where most people enjoy brief moments of watching birds, butterflies and other insects.
If you're keen to encourage more wildlife into your garden, check out how to maintain a wildlife-friendly area on the biodiversity section of the council's website, www.dublincity.ie
WATCHING CITY WILDLIFE
Ladybirds
Most ladybirds have seven spots, but in gardens in Dublin city there is a smaller species which has only two spots. Most people think these ladybirds are baby ladybirds that will grow up to have seven spots but they are, in fact, a different species.
Orchids
These fragile and beautiful flowers can be found in semi-natural grasslands in various parts of Dublin city, including North Bull Island.
Red squirrels
Up to 30 years ago in Dublin, red squirrels were commonplace. Since then, the large grey squirrels have taken over and red squirrels can now only be found in parts of Killiney, Dalkey and in St Anne's Park, Raheny.
Dolphins and seals
Bottlenose dolphins and harbour porpoises can be seen in the liffey close to Dublin Port. Grey seals are a familiar sight in Dun Laoighre and common seals breed on Bull Island.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Thursday, 14 February 2008
Dublin unveils plan to protect biodiversity
A major strategy to protect animal, plant and insect species - and the areas where they are found - in the capital has been drawn up by Dublin City Council.
It hopes the Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan 2008-2012 will give citizens a greater appreciation of, and respect for, the city's flora and fauna.
The five-year initiative to enhance the natural environment is the first produced for an Irish city and is being co-ordinated by the council's full-time biodiversity officer Mairead Stack.
The action plan was launched last night by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Paddy Bourke, who said "over a million people enjoy biodiversity in Dublin every day, simply by spending time in their own gardens, walking in their local park, woodland or along the seafront and watching wildfowl swimming in the local pond".
The project has involved extensive consultation among the council's planning, parks, engineering, drainage and architecture departments and provides for conservation and educational measures to "ensure the survival of the natural world" in the city following extensive building development in recent years.
Habitats and species, such as wetlands, semi-natural grasslands, urban trees, hedgerows, endangered plants, red squirrels, otters, bats, birds, butterflies, salmon/trout species, water beetles, dragon flies, moths and bees, will be given special status by the council when it comes to assessing the risk to them from future planning developments.
According to the council, thousands of foxes live in the city, with an average density of one family per sq km, although some areas have four to five times this density. The policy also outlines the need for an integrated management plan for Dublin Bay to take heed of its international ecological status, habitats and bird life.
The plan also aims to identify and protect biodiversity hotspots and create a series of wildlife "corridors", with additional shrubs and trees, throughout the city to allow animals move freely around the built-up environment.
Council officials want communities to take a more active part in enhancing their environment by being involved in the likes of a "NeighbourWood" scheme - where residents' associations take care of local wildlife spaces. The council is calling on businesses to help fund projects that will benefit the natural world.
Production of the plan has been funded by the Heritage Council and the council, but costs have not been disclosed.
A 2004 survey of 63 graveyards in the capital showed 26 species of birds, 15 different habitats, and 15 different species of mammals were present, including rodents, foxes, badgers and bats.
The initiative also provides for a tree survey and the development of a tree strategy for the city; the identification and protection of creature resting places; and best practice management of sand and mud flat areas along south and north Dublin Bay.
Other proposals include a programme to manage invasive species such as grey squirrels, a wildlife-friendly garden for public education, a biodiversity educational centre and wildlife gardens in schools.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
It hopes the Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan 2008-2012 will give citizens a greater appreciation of, and respect for, the city's flora and fauna.
The five-year initiative to enhance the natural environment is the first produced for an Irish city and is being co-ordinated by the council's full-time biodiversity officer Mairead Stack.
The action plan was launched last night by the Lord Mayor of Dublin, Cllr Paddy Bourke, who said "over a million people enjoy biodiversity in Dublin every day, simply by spending time in their own gardens, walking in their local park, woodland or along the seafront and watching wildfowl swimming in the local pond".
The project has involved extensive consultation among the council's planning, parks, engineering, drainage and architecture departments and provides for conservation and educational measures to "ensure the survival of the natural world" in the city following extensive building development in recent years.
Habitats and species, such as wetlands, semi-natural grasslands, urban trees, hedgerows, endangered plants, red squirrels, otters, bats, birds, butterflies, salmon/trout species, water beetles, dragon flies, moths and bees, will be given special status by the council when it comes to assessing the risk to them from future planning developments.
According to the council, thousands of foxes live in the city, with an average density of one family per sq km, although some areas have four to five times this density. The policy also outlines the need for an integrated management plan for Dublin Bay to take heed of its international ecological status, habitats and bird life.
The plan also aims to identify and protect biodiversity hotspots and create a series of wildlife "corridors", with additional shrubs and trees, throughout the city to allow animals move freely around the built-up environment.
Council officials want communities to take a more active part in enhancing their environment by being involved in the likes of a "NeighbourWood" scheme - where residents' associations take care of local wildlife spaces. The council is calling on businesses to help fund projects that will benefit the natural world.
Production of the plan has been funded by the Heritage Council and the council, but costs have not been disclosed.
A 2004 survey of 63 graveyards in the capital showed 26 species of birds, 15 different habitats, and 15 different species of mammals were present, including rodents, foxes, badgers and bats.
The initiative also provides for a tree survey and the development of a tree strategy for the city; the identification and protection of creature resting places; and best practice management of sand and mud flat areas along south and north Dublin Bay.
Other proposals include a programme to manage invasive species such as grey squirrels, a wildlife-friendly garden for public education, a biodiversity educational centre and wildlife gardens in schools.
The Irish Times
www.buckplanning.ie
Sunday, 22 July 2007
Red Kites fly again in Wicklow after 200 years
Up to 30 young Red Kites were introduced to the wild in Co. Wicklow - in a programme to restore this native bird of prey to Ireland.
Ireland's big birds of prey were all lost over the past 200 years, due to human activities.
However, since 2000, a series of projects have begun to address this.
"These wonderful birds became extinct in Ireland more than 200 years ago because of habitat change and persecution" - said Mr John Gormley, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government - who was present as the birds were released.
"From today, they can be seen again in the skies above County Wicklow. This project to reintroduce the red kite shows what we can achieve here in Ireland in terms of protecting and enhancing our natural heritage."
The Minister added - "The kites' return is a significant addition to our biodiversity and a wonderful complement to the golden eagle and white-tailed eagle restoration projects. This work is at the core of one of the heritage elements in the Programme for Government and I am delighted to see this early progress."
The Wicklow Red Kite Project is a partnership between the Golden Eagle Trust, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Welsh Kite Trust. It is funded by grants from the Minister's Department and the Heritage Council. The kite chicks came from Wales.
The Project Manager, Damian Clarke said - "As a native of Wicklow I am delighted that this county has been chosen as the first release site for the reintroduction of this spectacular bird to Ireland.
"I look forward to working closely with local farmers, landowners, community and recreational interests.
"In future years, these beautiful birds will become another tourist attraction in the Garden of Ireland, as they have done in Wales."
Tony Cross, of the Welsh Kite Trust, said - "We are incredibly excited at this collaboration, as it takes us into the next stage of the recovery of the Red Kite's fortunes. It is great that Welsh birds are being used, as they must be the most similar genetically to what Ireland had in the past. It also gives the project a nice Celtic link, which has gone down well with Welsh farmers who have generously allowed some of 'their' birds to be collected."
The Red Kite is a bird of mixed lowland countryside and its primary nesting habitat is woodland.
However, it may spend a large amount of time feeding in farmland and hedgerow.
The birds spend a part of each day soaring above the landscape in order to search for food.
The birds are individually marked with numbered wing tags, so that they can be relocated and their survival monitored. The first sign of breeding behaviour by these Red Kites in Ireland is expected to occur by 2010.
Although the birds are natural scavengers, they feed extensively on earthworms, small mammals - such as rats and rabbits - and birds - such as magpies and other crows. The Red Kite does not present any threat to livestock and, in parts of the UK, they have become major tourist attractions as they perform spectacular aerial displays.
Good views of flying Red Kites can be expected at various locations in Co. Wicklow over the next few months. Any information on sightings of the birds - including date, locality and identifying features - should be sent to the Project Manager, Damian Clarke (damianclarke@goldeneagle.ie).
The Red Kite is so-called because of its reddish brown body and tail. Its tail is deeply forked, making it an easily recognisable bird. Kites have a wingspan of up to 1.8m.
Kites normally breed in their second or third year. They build stick nests in trees - their nests are lined with wool. Prior to laying, kites often decorate their nests with scraps of cloth and paper, prompting Shakespeare to write in A Winters Tale - 'When the kite builds, look to lesser linen'. They lay 2-3 eggs.
The Irish name for the Red Kite is An Préachan Ceirteach - the 'Cloth Kite'. This name is derived from the habit of stealing cloths mentioned above. Due to their small feet and weak beaks, kites are not particularly powerful predators.
Ireland's big birds of prey were all lost over the past 200 years, due to human activities.
However, since 2000, a series of projects have begun to address this.
"These wonderful birds became extinct in Ireland more than 200 years ago because of habitat change and persecution" - said Mr John Gormley, T.D., Minister for the Environment, Heritage and Local Government - who was present as the birds were released.
"From today, they can be seen again in the skies above County Wicklow. This project to reintroduce the red kite shows what we can achieve here in Ireland in terms of protecting and enhancing our natural heritage."
The Minister added - "The kites' return is a significant addition to our biodiversity and a wonderful complement to the golden eagle and white-tailed eagle restoration projects. This work is at the core of one of the heritage elements in the Programme for Government and I am delighted to see this early progress."
The Wicklow Red Kite Project is a partnership between the Golden Eagle Trust, the National Parks and Wildlife Service and the Welsh Kite Trust. It is funded by grants from the Minister's Department and the Heritage Council. The kite chicks came from Wales.
The Project Manager, Damian Clarke said - "As a native of Wicklow I am delighted that this county has been chosen as the first release site for the reintroduction of this spectacular bird to Ireland.
"I look forward to working closely with local farmers, landowners, community and recreational interests.
"In future years, these beautiful birds will become another tourist attraction in the Garden of Ireland, as they have done in Wales."
Tony Cross, of the Welsh Kite Trust, said - "We are incredibly excited at this collaboration, as it takes us into the next stage of the recovery of the Red Kite's fortunes. It is great that Welsh birds are being used, as they must be the most similar genetically to what Ireland had in the past. It also gives the project a nice Celtic link, which has gone down well with Welsh farmers who have generously allowed some of 'their' birds to be collected."
The Red Kite is a bird of mixed lowland countryside and its primary nesting habitat is woodland.
However, it may spend a large amount of time feeding in farmland and hedgerow.
The birds spend a part of each day soaring above the landscape in order to search for food.
The birds are individually marked with numbered wing tags, so that they can be relocated and their survival monitored. The first sign of breeding behaviour by these Red Kites in Ireland is expected to occur by 2010.
Although the birds are natural scavengers, they feed extensively on earthworms, small mammals - such as rats and rabbits - and birds - such as magpies and other crows. The Red Kite does not present any threat to livestock and, in parts of the UK, they have become major tourist attractions as they perform spectacular aerial displays.
Good views of flying Red Kites can be expected at various locations in Co. Wicklow over the next few months. Any information on sightings of the birds - including date, locality and identifying features - should be sent to the Project Manager, Damian Clarke (damianclarke@goldeneagle.ie).
The Red Kite is so-called because of its reddish brown body and tail. Its tail is deeply forked, making it an easily recognisable bird. Kites have a wingspan of up to 1.8m.
Kites normally breed in their second or third year. They build stick nests in trees - their nests are lined with wool. Prior to laying, kites often decorate their nests with scraps of cloth and paper, prompting Shakespeare to write in A Winters Tale - 'When the kite builds, look to lesser linen'. They lay 2-3 eggs.
The Irish name for the Red Kite is An Préachan Ceirteach - the 'Cloth Kite'. This name is derived from the habit of stealing cloths mentioned above. Due to their small feet and weak beaks, kites are not particularly powerful predators.
Sunday, 15 July 2007
Ireland's first hedgehog survey in County Clare
The Clare Heritage Office, in association with the Clare Biodiversity Group, is hoping that the significant number of hedgehogs killed on Irish roads each year, will help them produce the country's first ever audit of the tiny mammal.
The primary aim of the survey is to assess population numbers.
The survey - which is co-funded by Clare County Council and The Heritage Council - will also identify the threat posed to the species by the widespread use of pesticides.
John Murphy, Biodiversity Officer, Clare County Council explained - "Members of the public will play a major role in determining the overall success of this survey. We are asking the public to record any sightings of hedgehogs on a reference map that has been established on the Clare Biodiversity Group website - www.clarebiodiversity.ie. These records will help us build a comprehensive map of where populations of the mammal are concentrated."
Mr. Murphy said that the Clare Biodiversity office would use the survey as an opportunity to raise awareness about the hedgehog and the many misconceptions that exist about the mammal. He said - "In areas where hedgehogs have been introduced - such as New Zealand and some of the Scottish islands - the hedgehog itself has become a pest.
"In New Zealand it causes immense damage to native species - including insects, snails and ground-nesting birds, particularly shore birds. As with many introduced animals, it lacks natural predators. Attempts to eliminate hedgehogs from bird colonies on the Scottish islands of North Uist and Berbecula in the Outer Hebrides, have met with considerable opposition. Thankfully, we have no such problems with hedgehogs in Ireland."
Mr. Murphy warned, however, that the increased use of pesticides was a having a detrimental effect on native hedgehog population numbers.
"It is ironic that hedgehogs are being killed by pesticides, when, in fact, they are the best pest control we have got".
He continued - "Pesticides - such as slug pellets - are known to kill hedgehogs, along with other species such as thrushes and frogs. Hopefully, this survey can raise sufficient public awareness to instigate a shift in opinion and a reduction in the use of pesticides."
Produced by the Clare Heritage Office, the Clare Hedgehog Survey follows less than six months after another inaugural survey was completed in Clare. The Clare Cuckoo Survey - which was undertaken by Clare Biodiversity Group and Clare County Council - found that the bird has made a resurgent comeback in the west of the country.
According to Mr. John Murphy - "We would appeal to the people of Clare and anyone who visits the county, to take part in the hedgehog survey. The hedgehog records will add to the significant amount of records accumulated over the last number of years for many other species - all of which are available to view on interactive distribution maps on our website."
Clare is the first county in Ireland to have a web-based Biological Records Centre - which, along with the Clare Hedgehog Survey, forms part of the Clare Local Biodiversity Action Plan - the first of its kind in the country.
For further information on the Clare Hedgehog Survey, contact John Murphy (Biodiversity Officer, Clare County Council) - Tel: 086-3208965
Email: jmurphy@clarecoco.ie
The primary aim of the survey is to assess population numbers.
The survey - which is co-funded by Clare County Council and The Heritage Council - will also identify the threat posed to the species by the widespread use of pesticides.
John Murphy, Biodiversity Officer, Clare County Council explained - "Members of the public will play a major role in determining the overall success of this survey. We are asking the public to record any sightings of hedgehogs on a reference map that has been established on the Clare Biodiversity Group website - www.clarebiodiversity.ie. These records will help us build a comprehensive map of where populations of the mammal are concentrated."
Mr. Murphy said that the Clare Biodiversity office would use the survey as an opportunity to raise awareness about the hedgehog and the many misconceptions that exist about the mammal. He said - "In areas where hedgehogs have been introduced - such as New Zealand and some of the Scottish islands - the hedgehog itself has become a pest.
"In New Zealand it causes immense damage to native species - including insects, snails and ground-nesting birds, particularly shore birds. As with many introduced animals, it lacks natural predators. Attempts to eliminate hedgehogs from bird colonies on the Scottish islands of North Uist and Berbecula in the Outer Hebrides, have met with considerable opposition. Thankfully, we have no such problems with hedgehogs in Ireland."
Mr. Murphy warned, however, that the increased use of pesticides was a having a detrimental effect on native hedgehog population numbers.
"It is ironic that hedgehogs are being killed by pesticides, when, in fact, they are the best pest control we have got".
He continued - "Pesticides - such as slug pellets - are known to kill hedgehogs, along with other species such as thrushes and frogs. Hopefully, this survey can raise sufficient public awareness to instigate a shift in opinion and a reduction in the use of pesticides."
Produced by the Clare Heritage Office, the Clare Hedgehog Survey follows less than six months after another inaugural survey was completed in Clare. The Clare Cuckoo Survey - which was undertaken by Clare Biodiversity Group and Clare County Council - found that the bird has made a resurgent comeback in the west of the country.
According to Mr. John Murphy - "We would appeal to the people of Clare and anyone who visits the county, to take part in the hedgehog survey. The hedgehog records will add to the significant amount of records accumulated over the last number of years for many other species - all of which are available to view on interactive distribution maps on our website."
Clare is the first county in Ireland to have a web-based Biological Records Centre - which, along with the Clare Hedgehog Survey, forms part of the Clare Local Biodiversity Action Plan - the first of its kind in the country.
For further information on the Clare Hedgehog Survey, contact John Murphy (Biodiversity Officer, Clare County Council) - Tel: 086-3208965
Email: jmurphy@clarecoco.ie
Friday, 6 July 2007
'Horrendous' killing of bat family linked to work on Galway bridge
Gardaí and the National Parks and Wildlife Service are investigating the killing of a family of Daubenton's bats which were nesting at a bridge in Co Galway.
The killing, which has been described as "horrendous" by Galway County Council and by wildlife experts, is believed to have been carried out in an attempt to expedite engineering works at the bridge.
Ganty bridge is one of four in the Craughwell area earmarked for repair. However, work had been postponed until a newly-born family of bats left the bridge.
A wildlife consultant advised the local authority that the animals would leave their nest by the end of July, and the council's engineering staff decided to postpone work on this basis as bats are a protected species.
Galway Bat Group member Martin Byrnes said the incident is believed to have occurred last weekend.
"We went out after taking a call, and found three bats dead and two still alive, but they didn't survive.
"It was just about the worst thing I have seen - their fur was scorched, wings had melted and the mother was obviously trying to protect her young."
Daubenton's bats are found in wood areas with large stretches of open water and near river banks.
They are characteristically seen flying with rapid wing beats over water surfaces, chasing small insects such as midges.
The local authority asked the media yesterday not to report details on the precise method of killing as it was concerned that it might encourage copycat incidents.
Former Galway mayor and Green Party councillor Niall Ó Brolchain described the incident as "horrific".
He said whoever was responsible must be prosecuted if they could be found by gardaí.
"While the presence of bats in the structure of the bridge may or may not have delayed repairs to the bridge, the killing of protected animals in such a cruel and callous fashion cannot be justified," said Mr Ó Brolchain.
The incident has been condemned by the Galway Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The Department of Environment said the National Parks and Wildlife Service had been alerted, and was investigating the case.
Lorna Siggins
© 2007 The Irish Times
The killing, which has been described as "horrendous" by Galway County Council and by wildlife experts, is believed to have been carried out in an attempt to expedite engineering works at the bridge.
Ganty bridge is one of four in the Craughwell area earmarked for repair. However, work had been postponed until a newly-born family of bats left the bridge.
A wildlife consultant advised the local authority that the animals would leave their nest by the end of July, and the council's engineering staff decided to postpone work on this basis as bats are a protected species.
Galway Bat Group member Martin Byrnes said the incident is believed to have occurred last weekend.
"We went out after taking a call, and found three bats dead and two still alive, but they didn't survive.
"It was just about the worst thing I have seen - their fur was scorched, wings had melted and the mother was obviously trying to protect her young."
Daubenton's bats are found in wood areas with large stretches of open water and near river banks.
They are characteristically seen flying with rapid wing beats over water surfaces, chasing small insects such as midges.
The local authority asked the media yesterday not to report details on the precise method of killing as it was concerned that it might encourage copycat incidents.
Former Galway mayor and Green Party councillor Niall Ó Brolchain described the incident as "horrific".
He said whoever was responsible must be prosecuted if they could be found by gardaí.
"While the presence of bats in the structure of the bridge may or may not have delayed repairs to the bridge, the killing of protected animals in such a cruel and callous fashion cannot be justified," said Mr Ó Brolchain.
The incident has been condemned by the Galway Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals.
The Department of Environment said the National Parks and Wildlife Service had been alerted, and was investigating the case.
Lorna Siggins
© 2007 The Irish Times
Tuesday, 22 May 2007
Plan to protect Dublin's plants and animals
Developers in Dublin will be required to maintain the diversity of plant and animal life in the sites they build on, under a new biodiversity plan for the city.
The Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan also suggests incentives for developers who take steps to ensure that plant and animal life is maintained and enhanced when they construct new buildings.
The four-year plan, which aims to protect the city's natural heritage and minimise the loss of biodiversity, also calls on Dubliners to play their part in encouraging plant and animal life.
"Halting the loss of biodiversity is a significant challenge for all of us and requires urgent and informed action," says Dublin city manager John Tierney. Among the threats identified are the loss of habitats, their fragmentation and the arrival of invasive species that quickly take over spaces previously occupied by a native species.
About 25 per cent of Dublin's land area is in private gardens, a mapping project carried out for the plan has established. The plan says this is a considerable resource that can add to the city's natural heritage by providing cover, feeding and commuting routes for hedgehogs, badgers, breeding birds and other wildlife.
Gardeners can help by providing berry-bearing and flowering plants; for example, rowan and cherry trees and the humble dandelion can give food and/or shelter to a wide range of animals. Providing ponds is another way of boosting biodiversity for frogs, water beetles, pond snails and dragonflies, and neutering cats, and putting bells on their collars, helps urban birds.
Increased biodiversity can help Dublin cope with the effects of climate change, the plan suggests. Biodiversity can make the city more carbon neutral as vegetation absorbs CO2. To cope with extreme weather, soft landscaping and green roofs will reduce run-off and help avoid flooding. Green spaces and mature planting can help counteract the danger of overheating in areas with a high proportion of concrete.
The plan highlights the rich variety of animal life already in the city. Some 33 different species of wild bird live in Dublin Bay and there is an average of one fox family per square kilometre of the city. Foxes breed in Merrion Square and in gardens adjacent to St Stephen's Green.
Other species present in Dublin are seven types of bat, seals, otters, badgers, hares rabbits, dolphins and whales.
Areas listed for special conservation or protection include Dublin Bay, North Bull Island, the Glenasmole Valley, Sandymount Strand and the Tolka Estuary.
Aside from the 25 per cent in gardens, 20 per cent of the city's land is in other green space, such as grassland, woods and some remaining hedgerows.
Paul Cullen
© 2007 The Irish Times
The Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan also suggests incentives for developers who take steps to ensure that plant and animal life is maintained and enhanced when they construct new buildings.
The four-year plan, which aims to protect the city's natural heritage and minimise the loss of biodiversity, also calls on Dubliners to play their part in encouraging plant and animal life.
"Halting the loss of biodiversity is a significant challenge for all of us and requires urgent and informed action," says Dublin city manager John Tierney. Among the threats identified are the loss of habitats, their fragmentation and the arrival of invasive species that quickly take over spaces previously occupied by a native species.
About 25 per cent of Dublin's land area is in private gardens, a mapping project carried out for the plan has established. The plan says this is a considerable resource that can add to the city's natural heritage by providing cover, feeding and commuting routes for hedgehogs, badgers, breeding birds and other wildlife.
Gardeners can help by providing berry-bearing and flowering plants; for example, rowan and cherry trees and the humble dandelion can give food and/or shelter to a wide range of animals. Providing ponds is another way of boosting biodiversity for frogs, water beetles, pond snails and dragonflies, and neutering cats, and putting bells on their collars, helps urban birds.
Increased biodiversity can help Dublin cope with the effects of climate change, the plan suggests. Biodiversity can make the city more carbon neutral as vegetation absorbs CO2. To cope with extreme weather, soft landscaping and green roofs will reduce run-off and help avoid flooding. Green spaces and mature planting can help counteract the danger of overheating in areas with a high proportion of concrete.
The plan highlights the rich variety of animal life already in the city. Some 33 different species of wild bird live in Dublin Bay and there is an average of one fox family per square kilometre of the city. Foxes breed in Merrion Square and in gardens adjacent to St Stephen's Green.
Other species present in Dublin are seven types of bat, seals, otters, badgers, hares rabbits, dolphins and whales.
Areas listed for special conservation or protection include Dublin Bay, North Bull Island, the Glenasmole Valley, Sandymount Strand and the Tolka Estuary.
Aside from the 25 per cent in gardens, 20 per cent of the city's land is in other green space, such as grassland, woods and some remaining hedgerows.
Paul Cullen
© 2007 The Irish Times
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