National Biodiversity Week 2018

  National Biodiversity Week 2018 Events Ireland's National Biodiversity Week will be happening this year from the 19th - 27th May. This year the country will have the opportunity to get involved with nature and our environment, with over 50 different events throughout the week. As each of these events are completely free, and very … Continue reading National Biodiversity Week 2018

Volunteer for the Countryside Bird Survey with Birdwatch Ireland

What is the Countryside Bird Survey? The Countryside Bird Survey (CBS) is conducted each year by Birdwatch Ireland between the end of Spring and the beginning of Summer . The Survey will celebrate its twentieth anniversary this year, having began back in 1998 for the first time. The CBS is an on-going national project funded … Continue reading Volunteer for the Countryside Bird Survey with Birdwatch Ireland

Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera)

Himalayan balsam (Impatiens glandulifera) is a terrestrial botanical species. The native home range for this plant is the Himalayas of which it is named after. It is known to be a high-impact invasive species in countries that it is alien to, hence the plant holding the status of 'alien invasive species' within Ireland. Himalayan Balsam … Continue reading Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera)

Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)

Holly Blue is a little blue-coloured butterfly that is native to Ireland. They are continuously in-flight throughout their natural range from early April to late June and once again then in early August to early September. They have a wingspan of only 1.5 inches which illustrates their tiny size. Holly Blue's mostly obtain their food sources … Continue reading Holly Blue (Celastrina argiolus)

Irish Public asked to report sightings of Curlew!

Minister Heather Humphreys and the rest of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Regional, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs are asking the Irish public to report any sightings of our iconic Curlew. The Curlew is one of the most threatened birds on our island and is rapidly sliding towards local extinction in Ireland. The Department have been … Continue reading Irish Public asked to report sightings of Curlew!

Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica)

What is Japanese Knotweed?  Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica) is a herbaceous perennial plant. This species is extremely common and widespread across Ireland. It is most prominent in areas of wasteland, roadsides, landfills, wetlands and riparian (river) areas across the entire country. Where did it come from?   Japanese Knotweed is native to East Asia in … Continue reading Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica)

American Mink (Neovison vison)

What is an American Mink? The American Mink is a member of the Mustela genus meaning that it is a mustelid. The American Mink differs from other members of the Mustela genus such as Weasels and Stoats due to its larger size. This mammal is more similar to a type of Marten that the other types … Continue reading American Mink (Neovison vison)

Common Lizard (Lacerta vivipara)

This reptile species can be found all over Ireland in areas of marshlands, moors, boglands and woodlands. Although they are common throughout Ireland, they can be hard to find because of their small size and the fact that they are very very quick! Common Lizards are on average about 4 to 6 inches in length but … Continue reading Common Lizard (Lacerta vivipara)

Irish Species: Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)

Red Squirrel The red squirrel is a member of the rodent family. Squirrels are distinguishable by their long bushy tails, which can measure almost the same as their body length. Body length can measure up to about 23cm whereas their tails can grow to about 20cm. Adult red squirrels can weigh up to 340g and fully-grown … Continue reading Irish Species: Red Squirrel (Sciurus vulgaris)

Fantastic Animal Magic Wildlife Rescue in Limerick!

Animal Magic Wildlife Rescue was set up in 1999 and over the last 18 years the rehabilitation centre has made an enormous contribution to wildlife conservation and rehabilitation for Ireland's wildlife. Animal Magic is based in Kilmallock, Co. Limerick, bordering Co. Cork in the south of Ireland. Animal Magic are dedicated to helping injured, abandoned … Continue reading Fantastic Animal Magic Wildlife Rescue in Limerick!