Dáil Éireann Debate, Wednesday - 18 September 2013
747. Deputy Brendan Griffin asked the Minister for Arts, Heritage and the Gaeltacht if he will indicate the number received by the National Parks and Wildlife Service in 2013 relating to corncrakes; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [37988/13]
Amharc ar fhreagraI am pleased to say that the provisional census result for corncrakes in 2013 shows a substantial increase. As the birds are very difficult to see, the surveyors record calling males. The 2013 results are set out in the Table below:
|
Regions |
Number of birds |
|
West Donegal |
54 |
|
North Donegal |
68 |
|
West Connacht |
60 |
|
Shannon Callows |
3 |
|
Total |
185 |
This is the highest figure for over 20 years and I thank all those, including the farmers and other landowners, who have helped conserve the species. While I am cautiously optimistic about this increase, I am aware that previous population increases were not sustained and so my Department will continue to work with our partners on the necessary conservation measures.
