Biodiversity is again to the fore in Coolagown, as all are welcome to attend an upcoming Biodiversity Improvement Workshop, hosted by Coolagown TidyTowns.
Being held at Kilmagner National School on Tuesday, December 2 at 7.30pm, the workshop will look to continue the positive work being carried out in Coolagown and surrounds to enhance and develop biodiversity and nature in the community. A key focus will be on the locality’s bird population, and the measures that can be taken locally to protect and preserve the various species in the area, especially those that are under pressure or in decline.
“60% of Ireland’s bird species are declining and are in serious trouble. There are many reasons. Climate change, habitat loss, rodenticide, lack of suitable food are a few,” said John Feeney of Coolagown TidyTowns. “The Kestrel, once a well-known bird of prey in the countryside, now finds themselves on the red list. The swift population is in big decline. Poor summer weather, a decline in their insect food and a loss of suitable nesting sites all contribute”.
INFORMED INSIGHT
Donal Sheehan of Birdwatch Ireland, and also of the successful BRIDE Project, will be guest speaker on the night. A dairy farmer, Mr Sheehan has played a key role in protecting biodiversity in the Bride Valley area and supporting others.
On the night, Mr Sheehan will be suggesting some small actions householders, farmers, businesses and schools can do to help in supporting the local bird populations.
All are welcome to attend the workshop, which is open to everyone, including other TidyTowns groups.
It is hoped that people with suitable locations for bird boxes – to help protect and restore barn owl populations – may get in touch with Coolagown TidyTowns and attend on the night.
“We would love to hear from farmers or householders who have out-houses or sheds where owls would very much feel at home,” Mr Feeney added.
