A new strategy has been launched to protect the endangered hen harrier on Scattery Island in the Shannon Estuary.
The plan aims to safeguard one of the country’s most important breeding sites for the rare bird while balancing conservation, heritage and tourism.
A new strategy has been launched to protect the endangered hen harrier population on Scattery Island in the Shannon Estuary.
The plan, unveiled by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan, and Minister of State with responsibility for the OPW, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, outlines measures to protect breeding activity, improve nesting habitats and reduce disturbance on the island.
Scattery Island, off Kilrush, is home to a significant proportion of Ireland’s breeding hen harrier population, while also being a National Monument with internationally important archaeological and natural heritage.
The strategy brings together the National Parks and Wildlife Service, the National Monuments Service and the Office of Public Works, alongside local stakeholders, to support conservation and sustainable tourism.
Ministers say the measures will help the hen harrier continue to breed successfully on the island, while providing lessons that can strengthen conservation efforts for the species nationwide.
