Wicklow County Council is delighted to announce its participation in National Biodiversity Week 2024 with a series of events celebrating the county's rich natural heritage. From May 17th to May 26th, all are invited to join us for a diverse range of activities aimed at fostering a deeper connection with nature and raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity conservation.
Event Details:
Ohh ! Deer; Research in Ireland and their Impact on Biodiversity
Date: Wednesday, May 22nd
Time: 6:00 pm – 8:15 pm
Location: Brockagh Resource Centre, Glendalough
Details:
Join us for a packed evening looking at multiple aspects surrounding Wicklow’s deer population. Kicking things off is a ‘Chew and Chat’ venison buffet, with David Tompkins of Wild Irish Game. This will be followed by presentations from Dr. Simone Ciuti and Colin Brock on national deer research, and the effects of deer on biodiversity with a special focus on Wicklow Uplands. We will then open the floor for a Q&A and discussion session.
Eventbrite Booking: Reserve your spot
The Barn Owl in Wicklow, Back from the Brink
Date: Thursday, May 23rd
Time: 7:00 pm
Location: Clermont Campus, Wicklow County Campus, Clermont House, Rathnew, A67 X566
Details:
Join us for an illustrated talk by Oran O'Sullivan, project coordinator from the Wicklow Barn Owl Group, to learn about the recovery of these magical birds throughout the county and ongoing conservation efforts. All are welcome, and no booking is required.
Wings of the Night: Bat and Moth Exploration
Date: Friday, May 24th
Time: 8:00 pm – 11:00 pm
Location: Clermont Campus, Wicklow County Campus, Clermont House, Rathnew, A67 X566
Details:
Join us as we explore the nocturnal world of bats and moths and learn more about these fascinating ecological indicator species. We will begin with short introductions from experts Justin Ivory and Jesmond Harding and then head out into the night to set our moth traps and deploy our bat detectors. To complete our investigations we will return to the lab and examine specimens and recordings.
Eventbrite Booking: Reserve your spot
Walk on the Wild Side: Exploring Tomnafinnoge Woods and the Derry River
Date: Sunday, May 26th
Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm
Location: Tomnafinnoge Carpark
Details:
Join us as we celebrate the rich biodiversity of this ancient oak woodland and adjacent river, guided by experts from NPWS, LAWPRO and WCC’s Climate Action Team. Starting with an engaging and informative fresh water kick sample demonstration we will learn about the invertebrates of the river and how they can inform us about water quality status. We will then be guided through the old oak woodlands to learn about the different species living there and the conservation issues they face.
Booking for this event is essential, and can be done through eao@wicklowcoco.ie. Please note that no dogs are allowed.
Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or simply curious about the natural world, there's something for everyone to enjoy during National Biodiversity Week. National Biodiveristy Week is organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN) and nationawide events can be viewed here. The events listed above are supported by The Heritage Council, The Wicklow Uplands Council and Wicklow County Council.
Please follow the booking requirements for each event and dress appropriately. All children must be accompanied by an adult.