Ours To Protect with John Morley (EP 17)

Ours to Protect is a unique and exciting audio project – a collaboration of local and regional broadcasters from across the country who have come together to tackle climate change, champion climate action, and inform and educate audiences all over Ireland about how they can make a difference.

Today on ‘Ours To Protect’ John Morley talks to Niamh Fitzgerald, the National Organiser with The Irish Wetland Bird Survey, ahead of their free workshop in Rinville.

 

 

Did you know…

• They rely on wetlands for food, nesting, and resting.
• Some wetland birds, like herons and egrets, have long legs for wading in shallow water.
• Wetlands provide important habitats for migratory birds, offering them a place to rest and refuel during their long journeys.
• Wetland birds play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of wetland ecosystems by controlling insect populations and dispersing seeds.
• Many wetland birds have unique adaptations, such as webbed feet or specialized bills, that help them thrive in their watery habitats.

 

Why surveying wetland birds is so important?

• Surveying helps monitor the health of wetland ecosystems and the impact of human activities.
• It provides valuable data for conservation efforts and helps protect endangered species.
• Studying wetland birds helps us understand the overall health of our planet's ecosystems.
• It contributes to scientific research and helps advance our knowledge of bird behavior and migration patterns.
• Surveying wetland birds can inform land management decisions and help create better policies for wetland conservation.

 

 

What can I do to help support the wetland bird survey?

• Participate in citizen science projects by submitting your bird sightings and photos.
• Help raise awareness about the importance of wetland bird surveys among your friends and community.
• Support organizations that conduct wetland bird surveys through donations or volunteering.
• Educate yourself about wetland birds and their habitats to better understand their needs and threats.
• Report any illegal activities or habitat destruction that you observe in wetland areas to the relevant authorities.

 

 

 

 

 

Here’s a few websites if you want to know more!

• Birdwatch Ireland https://birdwatchireland.ie/our-work/surveys-research/research-surveys/irish-wetland-bird-survey/
• ie https://www.npws.ie/sites/default/files/publications/pdf/IWM_106_Irelands_Wintering_Waterbirds.pdf
• Irish Wetland Bird Survey https://irishwetlandbirdsurvey.ie/

 

 

For more info go over to galwaybayfm.ie, click on Our to Protect image on home page. You could try out the  ‘Ecological Footprint’ calculator and you can take a quick survey.

‘Ours To Protect’ brought to you by Galway Bay fm, the IBI and funded by Coimisiún na Meán with the television licence fee – check out ‘ours to protect.ie for more info.