The Corncrake population has increased by 35 per cent in the past five years, particularly in breeding areas on the Atlantic seaboard.
The numbers of Corncrakes recorded in the core breeding areas of Donegal, Mayo and Galway has increased by 15% since 2022, according to the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS).
The figures were given at a Corncrake workshop running in north Mayo this week, involving a range of conservation experts as well as local farmers and coastal residents, and participants in the Corncrake LIFE project from across Ireland.
Responding to the project’s success to date, Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform, Malcolm Noonan said “it’s fantastic to see that action for the iconic Corncrake is working”.
“The increase from 161 to 218 birds in just five years is remarkable and a testament to the hard work and commitment of so many,” he said.
This demonstrates that the collaborative approach being championed by the Corncrake LIFE team and the NPWS Corncrake Conservation Programme is not only effective, but welcomed.”
As part of the two-day event, Noonan officially revealed a mural in Eachléim in north Mayo, which features the Corncrake, and the extinct corn bunting as well.
St Brendan and his oceanic voyage also features on the gables of Teach Mháirtín. The mural, which was co-funded by NPWS and Údarás na Gaeltachta, is close to the newly launched Solas centre and has already become a local landmark.
“I’m heartened to see local communities celebrate their natural heritage like this, and while we lament the loss of the corn bunting from Ireland, we should learn our lesson and ensure that other vulnerable species like the Corncrake are here for generations to come,” Noonan said.
Dr John Carey who manages the Corncrake LIFE project and oversees the NPWS Corncrake Programme, also paid tribute to all involved in Atlantic seaboard communities.
