Major boost for Corncrake as State acquires Mayo breeding site

The Irish government has announced the acquisition of one of the most significant corncrake breeding site in Ireland on the Belmullet peninsula in County Mayo.

Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity Christopher O’Sullivan TD said the purchase of the 5.75ha site provides the perfect habitat for Corncrake; including protection and a sustainable food source.

In Ireland, corncrakes are now primarily found in the north and west, particularly in Donegal and West Connaught. They were once widespread but have declined significantly due to changes in farming practices, especially mechanization and early mowing.

The National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) and BirdWatch Ireland are actively involved in conservation efforts, including habitat management and working with local farmers to delay mowing and create safe nesting areas.

A special event was held to launch the Natura Communities initiative, hosted by the Wild Atlantic Nature Project, and attended by Minister of State at the Department of Climate, Energy and the Environment, Alan Dillon TD, the European Commission along with local community partners.

The Natura Communities initiative aims to improve the conservation status in the Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) network of blanket bogs, a priority habitat under the EU Habitats Directive. The project is led by Wild Atlantic Nature, and focuses on 35 Natura 2000 sites in the northwest of Ireland, working with farmers, landowners, policy-makers and others to deliver solutions that benefit local communities and the environment.

Minister O’Sullivan said, “This site was a mushroom factory, it’s now a Corncrake factory. It maintains 25% of the local corncrake population, and is of huge, strategic importance to the survival of the species. By purchasing the site, we’re making a further commitment to protect it. The site lends itself well to research and education due to location, road access and scale, and will enhance conservation management already underway.”

“Over the past five years, the Corncrake population has increased by 35%, and here in Mayo the population has doubled. These impressive results are testament to the collaboration here on the Mullet Peninsula between farmers, landowners, Corncrake LIFE and the NPWS. It has become a model for community-focused nature conservation, and I’m delighted that this important work will continue once the project comes to an end,” he added.

Minister Dillon commented, “This announcement marks a significant step forward in our commitment to preserving Ireland’s natural heritage. The acquisition of the corncrake breeding site on the Belmullet peninsula and the launch of the Natura Communities Initiative are testaments to our dedication to conservation. By working together with local communities, farmers, and environmental organisations, we are not only protecting vital habitats but also ensuring a sustainable future for our biodiversity. These efforts highlight the importance of collaboration in addressing environmental challenges and demonstrate our resolve to safeguard our natural environment for generations to come.”