Free events for National Biodiversity Week

With Ireland’s nature and wildlife taking centre stage from 16th to 25th May for National Biodiversity Week, Meath County Council, with funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service, has organised 14 free events across the county showcasing the wildlife that can be found in our coastal, riverine, woodland, farmland, wetland and urban environments.

The events will be held in conjunction with partners including the Balrath Woods Preservation Group, Tree Council of Ireland, Sonairte Eco-Centre, Inland Fisheries Ireland and Bat Conservation Ireland.

Guided nature walks and field trips will introduce participants to bats, birds, butterflies and bogs among others, while an online webinar will provide some tips on how to support local pollinators.

Celebrating National Biodiversity Week at home is encouraged through special events like the Biodiversity Scavenger Hunt, a self-guided activity to discover wildlife in gardens or nearby in a local park. While library-goers can also take part in a countywide ‘Big Biodiversity Quiz!’ which runs over the course of National Biodiversity Week in all Meath County Council libraries.

Ben Malone, Biodiversity Officer in Meath County Council, said: “Engaging and connecting with nature in an enjoyable and interactive way is a great first step in learning more about your local environment and becoming actively involved in local conservation projects. “The events Meath County Council are facilitating, plus the several other events that are being run by other groups in the county, will offer opportunities to have fun and to be inspired by our local wildlife and green space. I hope there is an event for everyone to explore Meath’s environment and to learn how to play a part in protecting it.” Registration is required for most events. See https://biodiversityweek.ie.