Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

An eagle release at Lough Derg Valerie O'Sullivan

24 white-tailed eagle chicks released in Ireland this month

The birds are predators who play an important role in nature and the ecosystem.

24 WHITE-TAILED eagle chicks have been released in locations around Ireland this week as part of a long term reintroduction programme managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).

This brings the total of white-tailed eagles that have been collected in Norway and released in Ireland to 171.

The birds are predators who play an important role in nature and the ecosystem.

A small, established population of eagles is now fledging chicks around the country and has even produced triplets.

A satellite tagging system has been put in place so that the birds can be monitored as they travel.

NPWS Eagle Release Lough Derg3 White-tailed eagle Valerie O'Sullivan Valerie O'Sullivan

In August, eagle releases took place at Lough Derg, the Shannon Estuary and locations around the west of Ireland.

Once native to Ireland, these eagles became extinct in the nineteenth century. Since 2007, the NPWS has been working with partners in Norway, along with farmers and communities around the country, to reintroduce the species.

Minister of State for Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan, who released four chicks at Killarney National Park as part of the programme, said it was a result of 16 years’ work and collaboration, “not just on the reintroduction programme, but also on habitat restoration and engagement with landowners to secure their ongoing protection”.

“These apex predators perform a vital role in our ecosystems and the sight of them soaring in the thermals is a privilege that everyone who lives in or visits Ireland will now have the opportunity to enjoy.”

Bente Lyngstad, chargé d’affaires at the Norwegian Embassy in Ireland said: “Watching the release of the white-tailed sea eagles is a truly extraordinary and mighty experience. 

“Today’s stock in Ireland is the result of a long-term collaboration between Norway and Ireland, which again stems from our deep friendship and our shared values.”

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
25 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Submit a report
    Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
    Thank you for the feedback
    Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

    Leave a commentcancel

     
    JournalTv
    News in 60 seconds