As Easter approaches, Minister for Nature, Heritage and Electoral Reform Malcolm Noonan is calling on the public to protect nesting birds.
“In recent weeks, it’s been a real joy to watch our birds building and lining their nests across our landscape, in hedgerows and trees,” Minister Noonan stated.
“Some birds can also be found nesting in buildings and houses in our cities and towns.
“These birds are now starting to lay eggs and fledge chicks. It’s an incredibly important time for them and the future of their species.
“Over the Easter period, let’s do our bit for nature by protecting them and their nests so that they can fledge their chicks safely,” he added.
Protection of nesting birds
The Wildlife Act prohibits the cutting, grubbing, burning or other destruction of vegetation such as hedgerows and scrub between March 1, and August 31 annually, with some limited exemptions.
This is to protect bird life during the nesting season, to help prevent forest fires, to protect vegetation and wildlife habitats at an important time for breeding and growth, and to provide food for animals and birds.
Also, under the Act, it is a criminal offence to wilfully destroy, injure, or mutilate the eggs or nest of a wild bird or to wilfully disturb a wild bird on or near a nest containing eggs or un-flown young birds at any time of the year.
Wildlife crimes can carry heavy penalties, including large fines and even a criminal conviction.
At a recent sitting of the district court in Athy, Co. Kildare, a case involving the wilful destruction of two House Martins nests and the death of four chicks resulted in fines of €2,000.
Minister Noonan continued: “The [National Parks and Wildlife Service] NPWS takes wildlife crimes very seriously and investigates reports from the public.
“I would urge any member of the public to report any incident to the NPWS or to the gardaí.”
Niall Ó’Donnchú, director general of NPWS said: “Over this Easter we are looking forward to welcoming many visitors to our national parks, nature reserves and our wild areas.
“We know that our visitors will remember that these places are homes all year round to wild birds, animals and delicate plant life.
“In enjoying nature, we would ask you to leave it as you find it so that it is there – unspoiled and untouched – to welcome you and future generations back.”