The last survey of native Irish woodlands was carried out over a decade ago. It found about 1,300 native woodland areas, half of which were smaller than six hectares, and only about 40 were larger than 50 hectares, demonstrating the massive level of habitat fragmentation in Ireland today. Still, for a country where only about 2% of our woodland is native we have lots of native tree species; 36 trees and shrubs in total. The top ten native Irish trees in order of abundance in our native woodlands are presented in this article.
cork nature network
The Beauty of Lough Hyne
Lough Hyne, a truly spectacular saltwater lake, spans a distance of one kilometre in West Cork, not far from Skibbereen. Home to a vast array of both flora and fauna, including 72 different species of fish (1)—some of which are very rare—it is no surprise that the lough became Ireland’s first marine nature reserve in 1981 (2).
The Destructive Presence of the Australian Crayfish in Ireland: The Yabby
By Babette Bookelaar
Irish native white-clawed crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes) are under threat due to the appearance of a non-native crayfish species, the Australian yabby (Cherax destructor).
World Clean Up Day 2021
World Cleanup Day
18th September 2021
What is World Cleanup Day?
Speak Up For Cork City’s Natural Heritage!
The draft Cork City Heritage and Biodiversity Plan (2021-2026) has been produced.
Bryophytes in Irish Habitats
Walking through the woods, forests and even cities in Ireland you will have, at some point, observed Bryophytes scattered throughout the landscape. So, what exactly are they and what habitats to find them in?
The Rabbits of Dunkettle
You’ve definitely seen them. The rabbits on the roundabout at Dunkettle have been there for as long as we can remember.
Ash Dieback – A Disease Affecting Ash Trees
Ash is one of Ireland’s most widespread native trees.
Help phasing out pesticide use in the EU
EU citizens are being asked to sign an online petition to speed up the phasing out of pesticide use in European agriculture.
Hoverfly Larvae Lagoon
Hoverfly larvae are about as pretty as any other maggot, but grow into important pollinators and members of our ecosystems, as well as accomplished mimics of bees and wasps.
