Irish Birdwatchers Urged to Report Rare Summer Breeders

As the summer breeding season in Ireland begins to wind down, the Irish Rare Breeding Birds Panel (IRBBP) is urging the public and birdwatchers to submit records of rare, scarce, and non-native bird species observed across the country this summer.

Accurate documentation of these species is vital for conservation and monitoring efforts, the panel emphasised.

The IRBBP comprises members from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS), BirdWatch Ireland, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Northern Ireland, and dedicated birdwatchers from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.

The panel’s list of rare breeding birds includes species such as the Whooper Swan, Shoveler, Great Skua, Mediterranean Gull, Bearded Tit, Ring Ouzel, and Twite. Meanwhile, scarce breeding birds of interest include Eider, Grey Partridge, Hen Harrier, Lapwing, Woodcock, Little Tern, Peregrine Falcon, and Chough, among others.

Observers are asked to provide detailed records including dates, locations, and any evidence of breeding activity. This can range from sightings of a species in suitable breeding habitats at the appropriate time, to pairs seen together, nests, or chicks.

Additionally, the IRBBP monitors non-native species that have established breeding populations in Ireland. Reports of birds such as Greylag Goose, Canada Goose, Mandarin Duck, and Rose-ringed Parakeet are welcomed to help track their spread. The panel is also interested in records of potential new colonist species not yet included on their official lists.

All sightings and records can be submitted to IRBBP Secretary Tony Murray at the National Parks and Wildlife Service via email: irbbp@npws.gov.ie.

The panel encourages participation from all bird enthusiasts to support ongoing efforts in conserving Ireland’s diverse bird populations.