Ireland has a rich diversity of bird species, with approximately 185 regularly-occurring species and at least 250 occasional visitors. Some species are resident throughout the year, but many migrate to Ireland for the winter (usually from northern latitudes) or summer (from southern latitudes). Of the regularly-occurring species, 37 are currently considered to be of high conservation concern, 90 of moderate concern, and 58 have stable populations.
Many of the most important areas for birds have been designated as Special Protection Areas (SPAs) and receive protection under European legislation. Bird species outside protected areas also receive legal protection, and it is an offence to deliberately:
- Kill or injure a bird
- Disturb them during breeding, rearing, hibernation or migration
- Take or destroy eggs
- Damage or destroy their nests or other breeding / resting places
If a development is likely to have significant impacts on birds, a planning authority may request a bird survey and report from a suitably qualified ecologist. If it may affect bird habitat within an SPA, Appropriate Assessment will be required. In particular, the following activities are considered high-risk:
- Any plans or projects near an SPA or other important area for birds, including:
- Activities that could pollute surfacewater or groundwater
- Works that generate significant noise (demolitions, blasting, piling)
- Projects that will increase public access to important bird areas
- Wind turbines and overhead lines
- Clearance of trees, hedgerows, scrub or any other undergrowth, particularly during the bird nesting season (March to August inclusive)
Bird surveys - what is involved?
Survey requirements will depend on the type of development, the species that are likely to use the site, and the time of year. For small projects a single survey may suffice, but for large developments (e.g. wind farms, national roads) it is usually necessary to conduct a series of surveys during one or more seasons, including:
- Winter bird surveys (September to March)
- Passage / migratory bird surveys (March to May and August / September)
- Breeding bird surveys (April to June)
If you require a bird survey please contact us for a quote or further advice.
