Podcasts about BirdWatch Ireland

Niall Hatch is sounding very hoarse tonight — the price of talking non-stop to crowds at BirdWatch Ireland's buzzing Bloom stand! The effort paid off, with hundreds of new members, and a huge win for Ireland's biggest conservation charity...

Stakeholders from farmers to renewable energy call for the publication of the Land Use Review. Pat O'Toole, Political Editor, Irish Farmers Journal. Prof Mary Bourke, Geographer, TCD. Ronan Power, CEO Solar Ireland. Oonagh Duggan, Head of Policy, Birdwatch Ireland.

Two special performances of The Conference of Birds at the Mill Theatre in Dundrum highlighted the plight of Ireland's Red-listed birds through theatre, music and art. It was performed by The Elders and Cór na Nóg. Derek, Niall and John MacKenna reflect on the moving show and its BirdWatch Ireland links...

Niall Hatch, Head of Communications at Birdwatch Ireland, explains why people are being advised to not use bird feeders during the summer.

Birdwatch Ireland have urged people not to feed garden birds during the summer months due to the threat of trichomoniasis, a disease which spreads through garden bird feeders, and has already had a serious impact on Ireland's finch family…Joining Shane and Ciara to discuss is Collie Ennis, Biodiversity Officer at Trinity College Dublin.

Researchers at the University of Exeter have found that the way to prevent seagulls from stealing your food is to stick googly eyes on your food packaging!Joining Ciara to discuss is Niall Hatch, Head of Communications at Birdwatch Ireland.

Niall Hatch, Head of Communications and Development at Birdwatch Ireland, on the first sighting of the Oriental Turtle Dove on the island of Ireland.

While on holiday recently in Valencia, Spain, Derek noticed a species of bird that has become one of the staple performers in the Irish Dawn Chorus each year: the Collared Dove. First breeding in Ireland in 1959, they now consistently feature each winter in the Top 20 of BirdWatch Ireland's Irish Garden Bird Survey...

Niall Hatch, Birdwatch Ireland and Mooney Goes Wild

The swan census has been taking place across Ireland recently, to try and ascertain how many wild whoopers we have in this country.Joining Seán to discuss is Helen Boland, from Birdwatch Ireland…

The swan census has been taking place across Ireland recently, to try and ascertain how many wild whoopers we have in this country.Joining Seán to discuss is Helen Boland, from Birdwatch Ireland…

What if we were to focus our efforts towards environmental protection on moving forward, rather than looking back to an idealized past that is impossible to attain? Our guest on this week's show, writer and ecologist Richard Nairn, centers his most recent book, Future Wild: Nature Restoration in Ireland, on this very question.When Richard first started working on a nature reserve in the 1970s, awareness of conservation in Ireland was very poor. The passage of the Wildlife Act in 1976 marked a turning point, but despite having to comply with environmental laws and regulations as part of joining the European Union, Ireland had to be dragged kicking and screaming into the environmental world of Europe. Thankfully, things began to improve at a bit of a faster pace in the 1990s.Richard went on to become the first Director of BirdWatch Ireland, ran an environmental consultancy business for over 30 years, is an Irish Times columnist, and has published seven books. On this week's show, we speak with Richard about Future Wild and his thoughts on the state of nature restoration in Ireland. Beginning with an overview of Irish conservation history, we discuss greenwashing and paying lip service to environmental protection; the need for Ireland to address whole landscapes rather than isolated patches of land; and the tendency of the environmental movement to focus on loss.. Get full access to Sunwise at katemccabe.substack.com/subscribe

The Irish Garden Bird Survey, carried out by conservation charity BirdWatch Ireland, is Ireland's largest nature-themed "citizen science" project. This winter's survey season – its 37th – begins today, and as Niall Hatch tells us, it's a great way to learn more about the birds that come to your home...

BirdWatch Ireland's Cork Branch are streaming a live video feed from Harper's Island Wetlands Nature Reserve near Glounthaune, Co. Cork. Our man in Cork and a person who was instrumental in setting up both the reserve and the livestream, Jim Wilson, tells us more...

Niall Hatch, BirdWatch Ireland's Head of Communications and Development, discusses the launch of the Irish Garden Bird Survey.

The Cooney twins describe the abuse they suffered from four years of age at the hands of Michael Griffin. PJ Norris and his crew of traveling wilburys are doing real good along the Boyne canal. Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland joined us ahead of the commencement of this year's Irish Garden Bird Survey and Tony Toner had strong views on the need for instruction in road safety from a young age. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The advice on bird feeding from BirdWatch Ireland is that it is still perfectly safe to feed birds in your garden, noting that, unlike birds packed together in seabird colonies or wetlands, the species of bird that typically visit gardens are very unlikely to come into contact with the H5N1 virus. Niall Hatch explains why...

Niall Hatch, Head of Communications and Development for Birdwatch Ireland and Dr. Maeve Louise Farrell, post-doctoral researcher in UCD Veterinary (working on influenza surveillance project in Ireland)

Of all of the ornithological surveys carried out by conservation charity BirdWatch Ireland, its annual Irish Garden Bird Survey is far and away the most popular. This winter's survey season – its 37th – will kick off on Monday 1st December and will run until the end of February 2026.

BirdWatch Ireland's Cuskinny Marsh Nature Reserve in Cork has just added dedicated roosting islands for the wetland birds to sleep and shelter. Ornithologist Jim Wilson joins the programme to explain the additions.

Brian Burke, Senior conservation officer with Birdwatch Ireland and Nigel Sweetman, Irish Farmers Association Poultry Chair

Though rarely seen, owls play a quiet but vital role in Ireland's ecosystem. The next featured talk in Killarney National Park's 'Autumn Talks Series 2025' will be 'The Secret Lives of Owls in Ireland'. Alan McCarthy, Barn Owl Project Officer with Birdwatch Ireland, will give the talk.

As the cold evenings close in, now is the ideal time to set up a bird table in the garden, or even attached to a window if you live in an apartment. But, how do you do it, and are there certain foods that will attract specific species?Joining Seán to discuss is Niall Hatch, Head of Birdwatch Ireland…

Samantha Libreri, Eastern Correspondent, highlights BirdWatch Ireland's bird census on Ireland's Eye, off the coast of North Dublin.

Niall Hatch, Spokesperson for BirdWatch Ireland, discusses the increased presence of the Glossy Ibis in Ireland.

BirdWatch Ireland is Ireland's largest wildlife conservation charity, with a nationwide membership of over 15,000. Those members all receive Wings, the NGO's main membership magazine, and the children's edition, Bird Detectives. Niall Hatch takes us through the key issues in both magazines this summer.

Send us a textIn Your Nature returns with a thought-provoking new episode featuring Ricky in conversation with Pádraic Fogarty—ecologist, author, and one of Ireland's most influential voices for nature. The discussion centres on Pádraic's long-standing work advocating for more ambitious and meaningful conservation efforts across Ireland, from rewilding landscapes to reforming environmental policy.Together, they explore the state of Irish biodiversity, the systemic challenges facing conservation, and the urgent need to restore ecological integrity. Pádraic shares insights from his time with the Irish Wildlife Trust, his writing, and his vision for a future where nature is prioritised and protected. The episode offers a compelling look at how Ireland can move beyond token gestures and embrace real change for its wild places and species.The Gannet is the featured Bird of the Week—an iconic seabird known for its spectacular plunge-diving and striking appearance. Nesting in dramatic cliff colonies around Ireland's coasts, the Gannet is a powerful symbol of our marine heritage and a reminder of the richness that lies just offshore.In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

Send us a textIn Your Nature returns with a captivating new episode recorded live from Global BirdFair 2025, where Niall Hatch is joined by two seasoned nature guides with deep ties to the Falkland Islands—Andy Pollard, a Falklands native and expert birder, and Martin Anstee, a conservationist and expedition leader with decades of experience in the region.Together, they explore the unique biodiversity of the Falklands and surrounding South Atlantic islands, from windswept tussac grasslands to rugged coastal cliffs teeming with life. The conversation dives into the islands' remarkable endemic bird species, including the Cobb's Wren and Falkland Steamer Duck, and expands to cover the broader ecological richness of the region—penguins, seals, and the delicate balance of marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Andy and Martin share stories from the field, insights into conservation challenges, and reflections on what makes the Falklands such a special place for wildlife and wildness.The Johnny Rook is the featured Bird of the Week—a bold and intelligent raptor also known as the Striated Caracara. Endemic to the Falklands, this curious bird is famed for its cheeky behavior and problem-solving prowess, often seen investigating backpacks or stealing unattended items. A true symbol of the islands' wild spirit, the Johnny Rook is both a conservation icon and a favourite among visiting birders.A special thanks goes to Charlie Bingham and Oscar Henderson for the invitation to record at Global BirdFair 2025 and for facilitating us at the Whinchat Podcast Stage over the weekend.In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

Send us a textIn Your Nature returns with a fascinating new episode spotlighting the Ealing Beaver Project, a pioneering urban rewilding initiative bringing these charismatic ecosystem engineers back to West London after a 400-year absence.Niall is joined (recorded live from Global BirdFair 2025) by Dr Sean McCormack, founder of the project and a native of County Kildare. Together, they delve into the story behind the beavers' return, from the inspiration and planning stages to the challenges of introducing them into a highly urbanised setting. They explore how these remarkable animals are helping to restore wetland habitats, boost biodiversity, and reconnect city dwellers with the wild. Dr McCormack shares insights into the community's enthusiastic response, the ecological benefits already emerging, and his hopes for the project's future.The Hobby is the featured Bird of the Week, a small and agile falcon known for its dazzling aerial hunting displays. Often seen swooping after dragonflies or darting after swifts in summer skies, this elusive bird is a thrilling symbol of wildness returning to landscapes where nature is given space to thrive.A special thanks goes to Charlie Bingham and Oscar Henderson for the invitation to record at Global BirdFair 2025 and for facilitating us at the Whinchat Podcast Stage over the weekend. In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly.The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

Send us a textIn Your Nature returns with a heartening new episode exploring the Return to Nature Clare Church Biodiversity Project, a community-driven initiative transforming churchyards into havens for wildlife and reflection. Ricky is joined by Barry O'Loughlin, Biodiversity Officer with Clare County Council, to discuss the origins of the project, its progress to date, and the vital role of community involvement in its success. Together, they reflect on how with the bishops blessing, these sacred spaces are being reimagined as biodiversity hotspots, blending heritage with habitat.Later in the episode we meet Jennie Drysdale and Anne McLaughlan, two local champions of the project. On location in Doonbeg, they share their experiences of embracing the initiative, the positive changes already visible in their community, and their hopes for the future. Their story is a testament to the power of grassroots action and the beauty that emerges when people and nature reconnect.The Hedgehog is the featured species of the week, chosen by special request from Jennie. These charming nocturnal mammals are increasingly reliant on connected green spaces like churchyards for foraging and shelter. Their presence is a hopeful sign of a healthier, more hospitable landscape for all wildlife.In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly. The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

Send us a textIn Your Nature returns with a luminous new episode exploring the theme of Dark Skies, featuring a guest interview with Kerem Asfuroglu of Dark Source (lighting design consultancy) and Dark Skies Ireland. As artificial light increasingly disrupts ecosystems and obscures our view of the stars, this episode sheds light on the growing movement to preserve natural darkness for the benefit of wildlife, human health, and cultural heritage.Kerem shares his unique perspective as a lighting designer and advocate for sustainable lighting practices, discussing how thoughtful design can reduce light pollution without compromising safety or functionality. The conversation highlights how excessive artificial light affects nocturnal species, including birds and insects, and explores the broader ecological consequences of a sky that never truly gets dark.Ricky, Niall and Kerem also delve into the emotional and philosophical dimensions of darkness—how reconnecting with the night sky can foster a deeper sense of place, wonder, and environmental stewardship. The episode emphasises the importance of community engagement, policy change, and interdisciplinary collaboration in protecting Ireland's remaining dark sky areas.The Robin is Bird of the Week, a familiar and beloved garden resident. Robins can be disproportionately impacted by light pollution due to their year-round territoriality, sometimes causing them to sing all night and throughout the year. In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly. The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.More Info Dark Skies Ireland - Environmentally Friendly Lighting Guide BirdWatch Ireland - Robin For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

Send us a textIn Your Nature is back for a new season and this time we welcome Owen Murphy, Senior Project Manager with the Breeding Waders EIP, to discuss the ambitious and urgent work being done to conserve Ireland's most threatened ground-nesting birds. With populations of species like the Curlew, Lapwing, and Redshank in steep decline, the Breeding Waders EIP is taking bold, science-led action to reverse the trend.Ricky speaks with Owen about the formidable challenges of protecting vulnerable bird species in a modern agricultural landscape. A significant portion of their conversation focuses on predator control—an often controversial but essential tool in the conservation toolkit. They explore how targeted interventions are helping to reduce predation pressure on ground-nesting birds like the Curlew, enabling more chicks to fledge successfully. The discussion also delves into the cultural importance of retaining native species, with the Curlew symbolizing a deep connection to Ireland's natural heritage and rural identity. Ricky and Owen reflect on the difficult but necessary conversations around land use policy, acknowledging that meaningful change will require balancing ecological priorities with the realities faced by farmers and landowners. The conversation highlights the complexity of the task, the dedication of the team, and the hope that remains for these iconic species.The Oystercatcher is Bird of the Week, a striking black-and-white wader with a vivid orange bill, known for its loud piping calls and fondness for coastal and estuarine habitats.In Your Nature features Ricky Whelan, Biodiversity Officer with Offaly County Council, and Niall Hatch of BirdWatch Ireland, and is edited by Ann-Marie Kelly. The series is supported by Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath County Councils, the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and the Heritage Council.For more about BirdWatch Ireland, visit www.birdwatchireland.ie.

On World Seabird Day, 3rd July, BirdWatch Ireland, in conjunction with BirdLife International, published a map showcasing the 73 most important areas for seabirds in Ireland.

Welcome to another episode of Ours To Protect on Clare FM. Today we'll hear how nearly half of all bird species in Ireland have been found to be in decline, with many populations severely depleted. One in eight bird species globally is currently threatened with extinction. Much of this is as a result of climate change. Birdwatch Ireland carries out extensive scientific research and survey work into our bird populations. The Clare branch is one of the busiest in the country and was co-founded by Ornithologist John Murphy back in 1990. Since then, John has seen a marked decline in bird species in Ireland, much of which has been caused by climate change.

Birdwatch Ireland wants the Government to officially designate key locations around and off the coast of Ireland as protected areas. For more on this Ivan spoke to Oonagh Duggan, Head of Advocacy at Birdwatch Ireland.

Morning Ireland reporter Eithne Dodd reports on a new map of Ireland's seabirds.

BirdWatch Ireland has released a map highlighting over 70 of the most vital areas for seabirds around the country.Under EU legislation, Ireland must designate areas to protect the lifecycle of birds.Environment commentator John Gibbons spoke to Matt on Thursday's The Last Word.Hit the ‘Play' button on this page to hear the conversation.

Tara Adcock, Urban Birds Project Officer with BirdWatch Ireland, discusses their survey to help identify nesting swifts - which are now on Ireland's endangered list.

A whopping fine for feeding the ducks?One pensioner in England was fined one hundred and fifty pounds after feeding the local ducks biscuits, as councils are clamping down on bad behaviour in the UK.So, biscuits are a bad idea, but what should you actually be feeding the ducks on a family day out these days?Birdwatch Ireland's Niall Hatch joins Seán to discuss.

Eithne Dodd joins a Birdwatch Ireland's Countryside Bird Survey in County Wicklow.

Niall Hatch, Head of Communications & Development, Birdwatch Ireland

There's a sensational Chinese Golden Pheasant in Carrigaline and PJ talks to Margaret who found the bird, to Niall from Birdwatch Ireland and we may have found the owner in one of the callers! See the bird here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Each winter, Birdwatch Ireland need your help to identify where Starlings gather in large numbers to roost for the night, To tell us more about The Irish Starling Murmuration Survey, we are joined by Brian Burke from Birdwatch Ireland.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service has announced that one of the state's rare white-tailed eagles has been shot dead in Co. Westmeath. But, why is this so significant?Joining Seán to discuss is Niall Hatch from Birdwatch Ireland…

Brian Burke, Coordinator of the Irish Garden Bird Survey, BirdWatch Ireland

Send us a textIn our last episode of 2024, In Your Nature welcomes a well-known nature celebrity for a very lively chat. Niall and Ricky speak to Éanna Ní Lamhna about biodiversity and her long track record of writing, broadcasting and advocating about and for Ireland's flora and fauna. Éanna gives her characteristic, energetic and unfiltered opinion on nature broadcasting, biodiversity loss in Ireland, together with her hopes and dreams for Irish biodiversity in the future. Éanna really get's into it and eventually leaves Ricky afraid to ask any further questions

The mysterious Nightjar is one of Ireland's most elusive birds. With only sporadic records of breeding over recent decades, the general consensus was that we had effectively lost Nightjars from Ireland. However, a new survey coordinated by BirdWatch Ireland has confirmed that this species still survives in the southeast of the country.

Of all of the ornithological surveys carried out by conservation charity BirdWatch Ireland, its annual Irish Garden Bird Survey is far and away the most popular. Monday 25th November marks the start of the survey's 36th consecutive season, which will run until the end of February 2025.

Marie Staunton, Gardener and Brian Burke, Coordinator of the Irish Garden Bird Survey, BirdWatch Ireland

The Birds of Ireland, Jim Wilson with photography by Mark Carmody –Today Mary is talking to Jim Wilson and Mark Carmody.Jim Wilson in a wildlife writer, broadcaster, tour leader and former chairman of Birdwatch Ireland. Mark Carmody has a PhD in biochemistry and works as a European Patent Attorney. He is an award winning wildlife photographer.They have published a brand-new edition of this birdwatching field guide by leading experts (and uncle-nephew duo!) Jim Wilson and Mark Carmody at the end of March. It's the only photographic identification guide of its kind in Ireland and has been updated to include climate and habitat changes, 1600 photos and a list of birds of birds of conservation concern also. Their driving force behind the book was to increase awareness of Ireland's national heritage and landscape. Its publication date falls around springtime when the days are getting longer, and people are keen to explore nature around them. This book is the perfect companion!Buy the book