If you have, then researchers at NUI Galway want to hear from you.The hazel dormouse (also know as the common dormouse) was discovered living in Ireland very recently, most likely introduced from the UK or Europe. NUI Galway is conducting a survey to discover where they can be found and how many there are in the country -- and the team needs your help to track down this … [Read more...] about Have you seen a dormouse in Ireland?
mammals
European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Originally from south-west Europe and north-west Africa, Rabbits were introduced into Ireland by the Normans way back in the 12th century AD. They were kept in enclosed warrens and were used as a source of sport for Norman noblemen as well as exploited as a source of both meat and fur. Naturally enough some of these rabbits escaped the confines of their warrens and with their … [Read more...] about European Rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus)
Book Review: Wolves in Ireland
Wolves… the very word evokes a sense of wonder, admiration and fascination, albeit tempered with a healthy undercurrent of instinctive apprehension. Awe and fear: that’s a pretty evocative combination. When I heard about “Wolves in Ireland – A natural and cultural history” by Kieran Hickey, published by Four Courts Press, I couldn’t wait to read it! Whenever I think of … [Read more...] about Book Review: Wolves in Ireland
Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisleri)
Leisler's bats are considered rare throughout their European range, except here in Ireland, where the species is common and widespread. The Irish Leisler's bat population is the biggest in Europe, and Ireland is a significant European stronghold for this, our largest bat species. Although it is our biggest bat, Leisler's Bat is still quite small, with an average body length of … [Read more...] about Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisleri)
Ireland’s Mammals book review
Did you know that Ireland's largest mammal is the blue whale – the largest animal ever to have lived on earth. This oceanic leviathan weighs in at over 100 tonnes (or about the same as 33 African elephants, if you're counting) and can be up to a staggering 33.5 metres long. That's bigger than the largest of the dinosaurs. Although extremely rare today, some 30–50 blue … [Read more...] about Ireland’s Mammals book review
