Endangered lapwing makes return to Co Down bog thanks to conservation efforts

An endangered fowl has returned to a Co Down lavatory for the primary time in a number of years because of conservation efforts.

Two breeding pairs of lapwings have been noticed at Lecale Fens particular space of conservation, simply outdoors Downpatrick. The breakthrough comes after efforts by Ulster Wildlife working with native farmer John Crea.

Like many different ground-nesting birds, lapwing numbers have declined considerably during the last 40 years as a result of lack of wetland habitat and modifications in farming practices. The fowl is now red-listed on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Eire and is a Northern Eire precedence species due to its decline, rarity and significance.

Lapwings require a mosaic of habitats to breed and like boggy open areas with naked floor or quick vegetation, avoiding areas of dense cowl.

Since 2018, Ulster Wildlife has been working with specialist contractors and the farmer to get rid of invasive species and scrub, akin to rhododendron, from Lecale Fens, utilizing amphibious equipment.

Modern options

Simon Grey, peatland conservation officer with Ulster Wildlife, stated conservation efforts have been ongoing for 5 years.

“Prior to now, this space was managed by grazing or burning to cease scrub taking on and drying out the fen, however given local weather considerations related to peat burning and dangers to livestock from deep water we needed to provide you with new and revolutionary options,” he stated.

“5 years later and we’re thrilled to see our restoration efforts reap rewards for biodiversity, with Lecale Fens transferring in direction of a wholesome situation once more. This can have a knock-on impact on different wetland-loving wildlife too akin to dragonflies, snipe and silver hook moth.”

Mr Crea stated he was delighted to see the lapwing again on his farm.

“It’s sensible to see these birds doing so effectively and we hope they arrive again once more subsequent yr to breed,” he stated.

Range

Ulster Wildlife is working with landowners throughout Northern Eire to revive designated peatland websites together with large-scale peatland areas in want of restoration.

The purpose is to assist deliver again the wealthy range of species these websites as soon as supported, in addition to the host of advantages peatlands present from flood prevention to carbon sequestration.

Mr Grey added: “With over 75 per cent of land in Northern Eire farmed, it’s critical that farmers and landowners are correctly supported to assist restore nature on a panorama scale with peatland websites, akin to this, enjoying a significant function in serving to to deal with the character and local weather disaster.” – PA