Newcastle West Biodiversity Survey 2020

By Geoff Hunt

This survey was carried out on behalf of Newcastle West Tidy Towns

Table of Contents

1 Introduction ...... 7

1.1 Survey Area ...... 8

1.2 Castle Demesne ...... 9

1.3 Habitat abbreviations...... 11

1.4 General abbreviations ...... 11

2 Species Results ...... 12

2.1 Birds ...... 12

2.2 Butterflies ...... 15

2.3 Moths ...... 16

2.4 Dragonflies and Damselflies ...... 17

2.5 Hoverflies ...... 18

2.6 Bees ...... 20

2.7 Terrestrial invertebrates ...... 21

2.8 Aquatic species...... 22

2.8.1 Fish ...... 22

2.8.2 Amphibians ...... 23

2.8.3 Mayflies ...... 24

2.8.4 Other aquatic arthropods ...... 24

2.9 Mammals...... 25

2.10 Higher plants ...... 26

2.11 Fungi ...... 31

2.12 Galls ...... 33

3 Discussion ...... 34

3.1 Species results ...... 34

3.2 Birds ...... 35

3.2.1 Formerly Recorded Birds ...... 35

3.2.2 Sparrowhawk ...... 36

3.2.3 Little Egret ...... 37

3.2.4 Grey Heron ...... 38

3.2.5 Meadow Pipit ...... 39

3.2.6 Dipper ...... 40

3.3 Butterflies ...... 41

3.4 Dragonflies and Damselflies ...... 42

3.5 Hoverflies ...... 43

3.6 Aquatic species...... 43

3.7 Mammals...... 44

3.8 Higher Plants ...... 45

3.9 Fungi ...... 45

3.10 Galls ...... 45

4 Conclusion ...... 46

4.1 Castle Demesne ...... 46

4.2 Arra River ...... 47

4.3 Great Southern Greenway ...... 48

4.4 Business Park ...... 48

4.5 Overall ...... 49

5 Reference material ...... 50

6 Appendix ...... 51

6.1 Irish Bird name translations ...... 51

Table of Figures

Figure 1 - Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris ...... 6

Figure 2 - River Arra at South Quay with the N21 on the left ...... 7

Figure 3 - Sketch map of Newcastle West ...... 8

Figure 4 - Sketch map of the Castle Demesne ...... 9

Figure 5 - Song Thrush - Turdus philomelos ...... 10

Figure 6 - Grey Heron - Ardea cinerea ...... 10

Figure 7 - Fox Cover pond in the Castle Demesne ...... 12

Figure 8 - Collared Dove - Streptopelia decaocto ...... 14

Figure 9 - Orange Tip - Anthocharis cardamines ...... 15

Figure 10 - Brimstone Moth - Opisthograptis luteolata ...... 16

Figure 11 - Banded Demoiselle - Calopteryx splendens ...... 17

Figure 12 - Rhingia campestris ...... 19

Figure 13 - Bombus pratorum ...... 20

Figure 14 - Hawthorn Shieldbug - Ancanthosoma haemorrhoidale ...... 22

Figure 15 - 3 Spine Stickleback - Gasterosteus aculeatus ...... 22

Figure 16 - Frog - Rana temporaria ...... 23

Figure 17 - Great Diving Water Beetle - Dytiscus marginalis ...... 24

Figure 18 - Bank Vole - Myodes glareolus ...... 25

Figure 19 - Marsh-marigold - Caltha palustris ...... 30

Figure 20 - Beechwood Sickener - Russula mairei ...... 31

Figure 21 - Sulphur Tuft - Hypholoma fasiculare ...... 32

Figure 22 - Candle Snuff Fungus - Xylaria hypoxylon ...... 32

Figure 23 - Silk Button Gall - Neuroterus numismalis ...... 33

Figure 24 - Wood Duck - Aix sponsa ...... 35

Figure 25 - Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus ...... 36

Figure 26 - Little Egret - Egretta garzetta ...... 37

Figure 27 - Grey Heron - Ardea cinerea ...... 38

Figure 28 - Meadow Pipit - Anthus pratensis ...... 39

Figure 29 - Dipper - Cinclus cinclus ...... 40

Figure 30 - Holly Blue - Celastrina argiolus ...... 41

Figure 31 - Emperor Dragonfly - Anax imperator ...... 42

Figure 32 - Eristalis intricarius ...... 43

Figure 33 - Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris ...... 44

Figure 34 - Knopper Gall - Andricus quercuscalicis on Pedunculate Oak -Quercus robur ...... 46

Figure 35 - Marmalade fly - Episyrphus balteatus ...... 47

Figure 36 - Stonechat - Saxicola torquata ...... 48

Table of Tables

Table 1 - Habitat abbreviations ...... 11

Table 2- Table of birds recorded during this survey ...... 12

Table 3- Table of butterflies recorded during this survey ...... 15

Table 4 Table of moths recorded during this survey ...... 16

Table 5 - Table of Odonata recorded during this survey ...... 17

Table 6 - Table of hoverfly species recorded during this survey ...... 18

Table 7 - Table of bee species recorded during this survey ...... 20

Table 8 - Table of terrestrial invertebrate species recorded during this survey ...... 21

Table 9 - Table of Fish species recorded during this survey ...... 22

Table 10 - Table of Mammal species recorded during this survey ...... 25

Table 11 - Table of Higher plants recorded during this survey ...... 26

Table 12 - Table of Fungi recorded during this survey ...... 31

Table 13 - Table of Plant Galls recorded during this survey...... 33

Table 14 Number of species recorded for each group ...... 34

Figure 1 - Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris

1 Introduction

This survey is part of the Newcastle West Tidy Town's Biodiversity Plan and will be included as part of the submission for the Tidy Towns Competition.

The aim of this survey was to collect records of species present at Newcastle West, County Limerick [Grid Reference R23]. The objective was to improve the number of species recorded at this site and to provide up to date records. The species lists include Amphibian, Bony Fish, Bird, Butterfly, Dragonfly, Hoverfly, other Terrestrial invertebrates , Galls, Fungi and Flowering Plants.

The methods used include a telescope, binoculars, butterfly net, pond net, camera and visual sightings. This survey includes my own personal sightings up to July 2020. All records have been submitted to the National Biodiversity Data Centre in Waterford and will be included onto their online maps.

Cover photograph - The Dually River, Castle Demesne

All photographs are by Geoff Hunt except : Frog [ page 23], Waxwing [ Garden Bird Poster] by Mark Hunt. Long Tailed Tit [ Garden Bird Poster] by Mike Flanagan.

Figure 2 - River Arra at South Quay with the N21 on the left

1.1 Survey Area

The Town of Newcastle west lies on the N21 , 42km South West of Limerick City. The area surveyed is within the town boundary speed limits and includes a variety of Habitats. The habitats includes built up areas of streets, housing and gardens, River Arra, Business park, Great Southern Greenway[ disused rail track] and the Demesne which is mainly playing fields with mixed woodlands, hedgerows and an unimproved wildflower meadow. For this survey I have kept all my observations where there is public access marked as the walking route in red See figure 3 below.

Figure 3 - Sketch map of Newcastle West

1.2 Castle Demesne

The Castle Demesne is commonly known as The Demesne. There are 75 acres of playing fields, a playground for children and mixed woodland. The Dually River and Arra River flow through it meeting at the south eastern corner of the Demesne. It is a very popular place to visit with joggers, walkers and children. It is also a great place to relax and enjoy the wildlife within a short distance of the town square.

Figure 4 - Sketch map of the Castle Demesne

Figure 5 - Song Thrush - Turdus philomelos

This song thrush was seen in the Castle Demesne and was particularly tame. It allowed me to get to within eight feet so that I could take this lovely picture.

Figure 6 - Grey Heron - Ardea cinerea

The Grey Heron is now a regular feature at South Quay waiting for fish near the weir.

1.3 Habitat abbreviations

There are five main habitats within in the survey area which includes the Arra River, Business park, Castle Demesne, Great Southern Greenway and Urban. Some species are found in more than one habitat and are indicated as widespread. Abbreviations are shown after the name of each species.

The Table below shows the abbreviations for the habitat where each species was found.

Table 1 - Habitat abbreviations

A Arra River B Business park D Castle Demesne G Great Southern Greenway U Urban W Widespread

1.4 General abbreviations

The table below shows the general abbreviations used in this survey report.

agg. aggregate s.l. sensu lato, species name used in the broad sense sp. species (singular) spp. species (plural) s.s. sensu stricto, species name used in the strict sense st saint subsp. subspecies (singular) var. variety X,x indicates a hybrid name

Figure 7 - Fox Cover pond in the Castle Demesne

2 Species Results

2.1 Birds

The table below shows the 57 bird species that have been identified and records submitted to the NBDC during this survey.

Table 2- Table of birds recorded during this survey

Birds Water birds

1 Mallard A Anas platyrhynchos Mallard 2 Grey Heron A Ardea cineria Corr riasc 3 Little Egret A Egretta garzetta 4 Black-headed Gull A Chroicocephalus ridibundus Faoileán ceanndhubh

5 Lesser Black-backed Gull A Larus fuscus Droimneach beag 6 Snipe U Gallinago gallinago Naoscach Birds of prey 7 Buzzard U Buteo buteo Clamhán 8 Sparrowhawk W Accipiter nisus Spioróg 9 Merlin D Falco columbarius Meirliún 10 Kestrel W Falco tinnunculus Pocaire goithe 11 Long-eared Owl G Asio otis Ulchabhán fadchluasach 12 Barn Owl U Tyto alba Mulchán

Passerines 13 Wood Pigeon W Columba palumbus Colm coille 14 Collared Dove W Streptopelia decaocto Fearán baicdhubh 15 Swift W Apus apus Gabhlán gaoithe 16 Sand Martin A Riparia riparia Gabhlán gainimh 17 Swallow U Hirundo rustica Fáinleog 18 House Martin U Delichon urbicum Gabhlán binne 19 Meadow Pipit B Anthus pratensis Riabhog mhóna 20 Pied Wagtail W Motacilla alba yarrelli Glasóg shraide 21 Grey Wagtail A Motacilla cinera Glasóg liath 22 Dipper A Cinclus cinclus Gabha dubh 23 Dunnock W Prunella modularis Donnóg 24 Robin W Erithacus rubecula Spideog 25 Stonechat B Saxicola torquata Caislín cloch 26 Song Thrush W Turdus philomelos Smolach 27 Redwing D Turdus iliacus Deargán sneachta 28 Fieldfare D Turdus pilaris Sacán 29 Mistle Thrush D Turdus viscivorus Liatráisc 30 Blackbird W Turdus merula Lon dubh 31 Blackcap W Sylvia atricapilla Caipín dubh 32 Willow Warbler W Phylloscopus trochilus Ceolaire sailí 33 Chiffchaff W Phylloscopus collybita Tiuf-teaf 34 Goldcrest W Regulus regulus Ciorbuí 35 Wren W Troglodytes troglodytes Dreoilín 37 Spotted Flycatcher D Muscicapa striata Cuilire liath 36 Great Tit W Parus major Meantán mór 38 Blue Tit W Cyanistes caeruleus Meantán gorm 39 Coal Tit W Periparus ater Meantán dubh 40 Long-tailed Tit W Aegithalos caudatus Meantán earrfhada 41 Treecreeper D Certhia familiaris Snag 42 Jay W Garrulus glandarius Scréachóg 43 Magpie W Pica pica Snag breac 44 Jackdaw W Corvus monedula Cág 45 Rook W Corvus frugilegus Ruach 46 Hooded Crow W Corvus cornix Feannóg 47 Raven W Corvus corax Fiach dubh 48 Starling W Sturnus vulgaris Druid 49 House Sparrow W Passer domesticus Gealbhan binne

50 Chaffinch W Frigilla coelebs Rí rua 51 Linnet B Carduelis cannabina Gleoiseach 52 Lesser Redpoll W Carduelis cabaret Deargéadan 53 Goldfinch W Carduelis carduelis Lasair choille 54 Greenfinch W Carduelis chloris Glasán darach 55 Siskin W Carduelis spinus Siscín 56 Bullfinch W Pyrrhula pyrrhula Corcrán coille 57 Reed Bunting B Emberiza schoeniclus Gealóg ghiolcai

Figure 8 - Collared Dove - Streptopelia decaocto

2.2 Butterflies

The table below shows the 14 butterfly species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 3- Table of butterflies recorded during this survey

Butterflies 1 Aglais urticae Small Tortoiseshell Ruán beag 02/04/2020 2 Anthocharis cardamines Orange Tip Barr buí 08/04/2020 3 Aphantopus hyperantus Ringlet Fáinneog 15/06/2020 4 Celastrina argiolus Holly Blue Gormán cuilinn 14/04/2020 5 Cynthia cardui Painted Lady Áilleán 31/05/2017 6 Inachis io Peacock Péacóg 07/04/2020 7 Leptidea sp. Cryptic Wood White Bánóg choille 31/05/2017 8 Maniola jurtina iernes Meadow Brown Donnóg fhéir 15/06/2020 9 Pieris brassicae Large White Bánóg mhór 05/05/2020 10 Pieris napi Green-veined White Bánóg uaine 05/05/2020 11 Pieris rapae Small White Bánóg bheag 01/06/2020 12 Polyommatus icarus Common Blue Gormán coiteann 09/09/2012 13 Parage aegeria Speckled Wood Breac 14/04/2020 14 Vanessa atalanta Red Admiral Aimiréal dearg 14/04/2020

Figure 9 - Orange Tip - Anthocharis cardamines

2.3 Moths

The table below shows the 12 moth species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 4 Table of moths recorded during this survey

Moths 1 Autographa gamma Silver Y 18/06/2020 2 Celypha lacunana Strawberry Tortrix 22/06/2020 3 Ceramica pisi Broom Moth 02/07/2020 4 Cydia nigricana Pea Moth 18/06/2020 5 Depressaria radiella Parsnip Moth 22/06/2020 6 Lathronympha strigana Red Piercer 18/06/2020 7 Macroglossum stellatarum Humming-bird Hawk-moth 28/05/2020 8 Noctua pronuba Large Yellow Underwing 15/06/2020 9 Opisthograptis luteolata Brimstone Moth 03/05/2020 10 Orthotaenia undulana Woodland Marble 02/07/2020 11 Phlogophora meticulosa Angle Shades 31/03/2019 12 Xanthorhoe fluctuata Garden Carpet 10/06/2020

Figure 10 - Brimstone Moth - Opisthograptis luteolata

2.4 Dragonflies and Damselflies

The table below shows the 4 species of Dragonflies and Damselflies that have been identified and recorded during this survey. Dragonflies and Damselflies are collectively known as Odonata.

Table 5 - Table of Odonata recorded during this survey

Odonata 1 Anax imperator Emperor Dragonfly 17/06/2014 2 Calopteryx splendens Banded Demoiselle 30/05/2014 3 Calopteryx virgo Beautiful Demoiselle 09/07/2018 4 Pyrrhosoma nymphula Large Red damselfly 01/06/2020

Figure 11 - Banded Demoiselle - Calopteryx splendens

2.5 Hoverflies

The table below shows the 36 species of hoverfly that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 6 - Table of hoverfly species recorded during this survey

Hoverfly 1 Cheilosia bergenstammi 13/08/2014 2 Chrysogaster solstitialis 30/04/2020 3 Chrysotoxum bicinctum 18/06/2020 4 Epistrophe eligans 20/04/2020 5 Episyrphus balteatus Marmalade Fly 03/09/2014 6 Eristalinus sepulchralis 11/05/2020 7 Eristalis arbustorum 20/04/2020 8 Eristalis horticola 13/08/2014 9 Eristalis intricarius 17/04/2020 10 Eristalis nemorum 01/06/2020 11 Eristalis pertinax Tapered Dronefly 02/04/2020 12 Eristalis tenax Dronefly 02/04/2020 13 Eupeodes corollae Migrant Hoverfly 04/05/2020 14 Eupeodes latifasciatus 13/08/2014 15 Helophilus hybridus 03/09/2014 16 Helophilus pendulus Pyjama Fly 22/04/2020 17 Leucozona lucorum 28/04/2014 18 Melangyna lasiophthalma 01/04/2020 19 Melanostoma mellinum 13/08/2014 20 Melanostoma scalare Chequered Hoverfly 17/04/2020 21 Meliscaeva auricollis 27/06/2014 22 Myathropa florea 22/06/2020 23 Neoascia podagrica 04/05/2020 24 Platycheirus albimanus White-footed Hoverfly 02/04/2020 25 Platycheirus granditarsus 27/06/2014 26 Platycheirus rosarum 13/08/2014 27 Platycheirus scutatus 03/09/2014 28 Rhingia campestris 17/04/2020 29 Scaeva pyrastri Pied Hoverfly 01/06/2020 30 Sericomyia silentis Bog Hoverfly 01/06/2020 31 Syritta pipiens Thick-legged Hoverfly 15/06/2020 32 Syrphus ribesii 13/08/2014 33 Syrphus vitripennis 15/06/2020 34 Volucella bombylans 13/06/2020 35 Volucella pellucens Great Pied HoverFly 01/06/2020 36 Xylota segnis 27/06/2014

Figure 12 - Rhingia campestris

Figure 9 - Volucella pellucens - Great Pied Hoverfly

2.6 Bees

The table below shows the 13 bee species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 7 - Table of bee species recorded during this survey

Bees 1 Andrena clarkella Solitary bee 14/04/2020 2 Andrena haemorrhoa Early Mining Bee 21/04/2020 3 Andrena scotica Chocolate Mining Bee 05/06/2020 4 Bombus bohemicus Gipsy Cuckoo Bee 07/05/2020 5 Bombus hortorum Small garden Bumble Bee 13/04/2020 6 Bombus lapidarius Red Tailed Bumble Bee 09/04/2020 7 Bombus lucorum agg. White-tail Bumble Bee 13/05/2016 8 Bombus pascuorum Common Carder Bee 22/04/2020 9 Bombus pratorum Early Bumble Bee 22/04/2020 10 Bombus terrestris Buff-tail Bumble Bee 13/05/2016 11 Halictus rubicundus Solitary Bee 21/04/2020 12 Nomada leucophthalma Solitary Bee 21/04/2020 13 Nomada marshamella Marsham's Nomad bee 07/05/2020

Figure 13 - Bombus pratorum

2.7 Terrestrial invertebrates

The table below shows the 28 terrestrial invertebrate species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 8 - Table of terrestrial invertebrate species recorded during this survey

Terrestrial Invertebrates Worms 1 Eisenia fetida Manure Worm 24/04/2017 Slugs 1 Lehmannia valentiana Greenhouse Slug 12/04/2017 Crustaceans 1 Armadillidium vulgare Common Pill Woodlouse 24/04/2017 2 Oniscus asellus Common Shiny Woodlouse 24/04/2017 3 Porcellio scaber Common Rough Woodlouse 24/04/2017 Arachnids 1 Dysdera crocata Woodlouse Spider 13/04/2020 2 Larinioides cornutus Spider 21/04/2020 3 Nemastoma bimaculatum Harvestman 18/09/2018 4 Philodromus dispar Running Crab Spider 01/06/2020 5 Pholcidae sp. Daddy-long-legs spiders 21/04/2020 6 Pisaura mirabilis Nursery Web Spider 13/04/2020 7 Tegenaria domestica Common House Spider 13/04/2020 Other insects 1 Calocoris stysi Bug 18/06/2020 2 Chloromyia formosa Broad Centurion 01/06/2020 3 Chorthippus brunneus Field Grasshopper 15/06/2020 4 Chrysopilus cristatus Black Snipefly 01/06/2020 5 Forficula auricularia Common Earwig 12/04/2017 6 Gastrophysa viridula Green Dock Beetle 21/04/2020 7 Leptopterna dolabrata Meadow Plant Bug 18/06/2020 8 Liophloeus tessulatus Weevil 01/06/2020 9 Ocypus olens Devil's Coach-horse 13/04/2020 10 Oedemera nobilis Click beetle 07/05/2020 11 Pontania proxima Sawfly 01/06/2020 12 Rhagio scolopaceus Downlooker Snipefly 01/06/2020 13 Taphrina betulina Birch Besom 13/04/2020 14 Tenthredo mesomela Sawfly 01/06/2020 15 Tetrix subulata Slender Groundhopper 04/05/2020 16 Tipula maxima Cranefly 07/05/2020

Figure 14 - Hawthorn Shieldbug - Ancanthosoma haemorrhoidale

2.8 Aquatic species

2.8.1 Fish

The table below shows the 4 Fish species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 9 - Table of Fish species recorded during this survey

Fish 1 Barbatula barbatula Stone Loach 10/05/2016 2 Gasterosteus aculeatus Three-spine Stickleback 10/05/2016 3 Phoxinus phoxinus Minnow 25/06/2018 4 Salmo salmo Brown Trout 22/04/2015

Figure 15 - 3 Spine Stickleback - Gasterosteus aculeatus

2.8.2 Amphibians

The table below shows the 1 Amphibian species identified and recorded during this survey.

Amphibians 1 Rana temporaria Common Frog 26/03/2020

Figure 16 - Frog - Rana temporaria

2.8.3 Mayflies

The table below shows the 4 Mayfly species identified and recorded during this survey.

Mayflies 1 Ecdyonurus insignis Lar ge Green Dun 08/05/2014 2 Ecdyonurus venosus False March Brown 08/05/2014 3 Ephemera danica Green Drake 08/05/2014 4 Rhithrogena semicolorata Olive Upright 08/05/2018

2.8.4 Other aquatic arthropods

The table below shows the 6 other Arthropod species identified and recorded during this survey.

Arthropods 1 Aquarius najas River Skater 21/04/2020 2 Asellus aquaticus Hoglouse 05/04/2019 3 Austropotamobius pallipes White Clawed Crayfish 21/05/2016 4 Dytiscus marginalis Great Diving Beetle 22/05/2016 5 Hydrometra stagnorum Water Measurer 05/04/2019 6 Velia caprai Water Cricket 21/04/2020

Figure 17 - Great Diving Water Beetle - Dytiscus marginalis

2.9 Mammals

The table below shows the 6 Mammal species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 10 - Table of Mammal species recorded during this survey

Mammals 1 Mus musculus House Mouse Luch thí 2 Mustela erminea subsp.hibernica Irish Stoat Easóg 3 Myodes glareolus Bank Vole Luch rua 4 Rattus norvegicus Brown Rat Francach donn 5 Sciurus vulgaris Red Squirrel Iora rua 6 Vulpes vulpes Fox Sionnach

Figure 18 - Bank Vole - Myodes glareolus

2.10 Higher plants

The table below shows the list of 186 Higher plants species identified and recorded during this survey. Higher plants are known as Vascular Plants which include mainly flowering plants, ferns and horsetails.

Table 11 - Table of Higher plants recorded during this survey

Higher Plants 1 Acer pseudoplatanus W Sycamore Seiceamóir 2 Aegopodium podagraria D Ground Elder Lus an easpaig 3 Aesculus hippocastanum W Horse Chestnut Crann cnó capaill 4 Alliaria petiolata D Garlic Mustard Bóchinneal 5 Allium triquetrum U Three-cornered Garlic Glaschreamh 6 Allium ursinum D Ramsons Creamh 7 Alnus glutinosa D Alder Fearnóg 8 Alopecurus pratensis D Meadow Foxtail 9 Anacamptis pyramidalis G Pyramidal Orchid Magairlín na stuaice 10 Anagallis arvensis G Scarlet Pimpernel Falcaire fiáin 11 Anthoxanthum odoratum B Sweet Vernal-grass 12 Anthriscus sylvestris W Cow Parsley Peirsil bhó 13 Apium nodiflorum W Fool's-water-cress Gunna uisce 14 Aquilegia vulgaris D Columbine Colaimbín 15 Arctium minus A Lesser Burdock 16 Arrhenatherum elatius G False Oat-grass 17 Arum maculatum D Lords and ladies Cluas chaoin 18 Asplenium ceterach U Rustyback Raithneach rua 19 Asplenium ruta-muraria U Wall-rue Luibh na seacht 20 Asplenium scolopendrium W Hart's-tongue Fern Creamh na muice fia 21 Asplenium trichomanes U Maidenhair Spleenwort Lus ns seilge 22 Athyrium filix-femina G Lady-fern 23 Bellis perennis W Daisy Nóinín 24 Blackstonia perfoliata B Yellow-wort Dréimire bui 25 Brachypodium sylvaticum D False Brome 26 Brassica rapa D Turnip 27 Briza media G Quaking-grass 28 Caltha palustris D Marsh-marigold Lus buí Bealtaine 29 Calystegia sepium D Hedge Bindweed Lalus fáil 30 Capsella bursa-pastoris W Shepherd's-purse Lus an sparáin 31 Cardamine flexuosa U Wavy Bitter-cress Searbh-bhiolar casta 32 Cardamine hirsuta U Hairy Bitter-cress Searbh-bhiolar giobach 33 Cardamine pratensis W Lady's Smock Biolar gréagáin 34 Carex flacca 35 Carex otrubae B False Fox-sedge 36 Carex pendula D Pendulous Sedge 37 Carex remota D Remote Sedge 38 Carex sylvatica D Wood-sedge 39 Centaurea nigra W Common Knapweed Minscoth

40 Centaurium erythraea B Common Centuary Dréimire Muire 41 Centranthus ruber U Red Valerian Slán iomaire 42 Cerastium fontanum W Common Mouse-ear Cluas luchóige choiteann 43 Chamerion angustifolium G Rosebay Willowherb Lus na tine 44 Chrysosplenium oppositifolium D Opposite-leaved Golden-saxifrage Glóiris 45 Circaea lutetiana D Enchanter's-nightshade Fuinseagach 46 Cirsium arvense W Creeping thistle Feochadán reatha 47 Cirsium palustre W Marsh Thistle Feochadán corraigh 48 Cirsium vulgare W Spear Thistle Feochadán colgach 49 Conium maculatum U Hemlock Moiong mhear 50 Conopodium majus D Pignut Cúlarán 51 Corylus avellana W Hazel Coll 52 Crataegus monogyna W Hawthorn Sceach gheal 53 Cymbalaria muralis U Ivy-leaved Toadflax Buafiíon balla 54 Cynosurus B Crested Dog's-tail 55 Dactylis glomerata W Cock's-foot Garbhfhéar 56 Dactylorhiza fuchsii G Common Spotted-orchid Nuacht bhallach 57 Daucus carota W Wild Carrot Mealbhacán 58 Deschampsia cespitosa D Tufted Hair-grass 59 Dipsacus fullonum G Wild Teasel Leadán úcaire 60 Dryopteris filix-mas W Male -fern Raithneach mhadra 61 Elytrigia repens W Common Couch 62 Epilobium ciliatum U American Willowherb Saileachán sráide 63 Epilobium hirsutum W Great Willowherb Lus na Tríonóide 64 Epilobium obscurum U Short-fruited Willowherb Saileachán caol 65 Epilobium parviflorum W Hoary Willowherb Saileachán liath 66 Equisetum arvense W Field Horsetail Scuab eich ghoirt 67 Equisetum fluviatile W Water Horsetail 68 Erophila verna U Common Whitlowgrass Bosán anagair 69 Euonymus europaeus G Spindle Feoras 70 Eupatorium cannabinum A Hemp-agrimony Cnáib uisce 71 Euphorbia helioscopia D Sun Spurge Lus na bhfaithní 72 Euphorbia peplus A Petty Spurge Gearr numhe 73 Fallopia japonica U Japanese Knotweed Glúineach bhiorach 74 Ficaria verna W Lesser Celandine Grán arcáin 75 Filipendula ulmaria W Meadowsweet Airgead luachra 76 Fragaria vesca G Wild Strawberry Sú talún fiáin 77 Fraxinus excelsior W Ash Fuinseóg 78 Galium aparine W Cleavers Garbhlus 79 Geranium dissectum W Cut-leaved Cranesbill Crobh giobach 80 Geranium lucidum G Shining Crane's-bill Crobh geal 81 Geranium robertainum W Herb-robert Ruithéal ri 82 Geum urbanum D Wood Avens Macall cille 83 Hedera helix W Ivy Eidhneán 84 Heracleum sphondylium W Hogweed Feabhrán 85 Holcus lanatus W Yorkshire-fog 86 Hyacinthoides x massartiana P D Spanish Bluebell 87 Hypericum androsaemum G Tutsan Meas torc allta

88 Ilex aquilfolium D Holly Cuileann 89 Impatiens glandulifera A Himalayan Balsam Lus na pléisce 90 Iris pseudacorus D Yellow Iris Feileastram 91 Juncus conglomeratus G Compact Rush 92 Juncus effusus W Soft-rush 93 Juncus inflexus W Hard Rush 94 Lamium purpureum W Red Dead-nettle Caichneantóg dhearg 95 Lapsana communis W Nipplewort Duilleog Bhride 96 Lathyrus pratensis W Meadow Vetchling Peasairin bui 97 Leucanthemum vulgare W Oxeye Daisy Nóinín mór 98 Leycesteria formosa D Himalayan Honeysuckle Féithleann álain 99 Lonicera periclymenum W Honeysuckle Féithleann 100 Lotus corniculatus G Common Bird's-foot Trefoil Crobh éin 101 Lotus pendunculatus W Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil Crobh éin corraigh 102 Luzula campestris B Field Wood-rush 103 Luzula sylvatica D Great Wood-rush 104 Lythrum salicaria B Purple-loosestrife Créatach 105 Matricaria discoidea W Pineapple Mayweed Lus na hiothlann 106 Medicago lupulina W Black Medick Dúmheidic 107 Myosotis arvensis W Field Forget-me-not Lus míonla goirt 108 Odontites vernus B Red Bartsia Hocus tae 109 Oenanthe crocata A Hemlock Water-dropwort Dáthabha bán 110 Papaver rhoeas U Poppy Cailleach dhearg 111 Parietaria judaica U Pellitory-of-the-wall Feabhraid reatha 112 Persicaria maculosa W Redshank Glúineach dhearg 113 Petasites hybridus A Butterbur Gallán mór 114 Phalaris arundinacea A Reed Canary-grass 115 Phleum pratense B Timothy 116 Plantago lanceolata W Ribwort Plantain Slánlus 117 Plantago major W Greater Plantain Cuach Phádraig 118 Pilosella officinarum G Mouse-ear-hawkweed Searbh na muc 119 Pimpinella major G Greater Burnet-saxifrage 120 Polypodium vulgare s.s. W Polypody 121 Polystitchum setiferum W Soft Shield-fern 122 Populus alba U White Poplar 123 Potentilla anserina W Silverweed Br iosclán 124 Potentilla reptans Creeping Cinquefoil Cúig mhéar Mhuire 125 Primula veris B Cowslip Blainne bó bleachtáin 126 Primula vulgaris D Primrose Sabhaircin 127 Prunella vulgaris W Self Heal Duán ceannchosach 128 Prunus avium D Wild Cherry Silín 129 Prunus spinosa W Blackthorn Draighean 130 Pteridium aquilinum W Bracken Raithneach mhór 131 Quercus petraea D Sessile Oak Dair ghaelach 132 Quercus robur D Pendunculate Oak Dair 133 Ranunculus acris W Meadow Buttercup Fearbhán féir 134 Ranunculus penicillatus A Stream Water-crowfoot Néal uisce bréige 135 Ranunculus repens W Creeping Buttercup Fearbhán

136 Reseda luteola D Weld Bui mór 137 Rosa canina agg. W Dog-rose Feirdhris 138 Rubus fruticosus agg. W Bramble Dris 139 Rumex acetosa W Common Sorrel Samhadh bó 140 Rumex crispus Curled Dock 141 Rumex obtusifolius G Broad-leaved Dock Copóg 142 Sagina procumbens U Procumbent Pearlwort Mongán sinte 143 Salix cinerea W Grey Willow Saileach 144 Salix fragilis A Crack-willow Saileach 145 Sambucus nigra W Elder Trom 146 Saxifraga tridactylites U Rue-leaved Saxifrage Móran balla 147 Scrophularia auriculata W Water Figwort Donnlus uisce 148 Senecio aquaticus B Marsh Ragwort Buachalán corraigh 149 Senecio jacobaea W Ragwort Buachalán bui 150 Senecio vulgaris W Groundsel Grúnlas 151 Silene diocia P D Red Campion Coireán coilleach 152 Silene flos-cuculi B Ragged-robin Lus sioda 153 Sisymbrium officinale U Hedge Mustard Lus an óir 154 Solanum dulcamara G Bittersweet Fuath gorm 155 Sonchus oleraceus W Smooth Sow-thistle Bleachtán mín 156 Sorbus aucuparia D Mountain Ash Caorthann 157 Stachys palustris B Marsh Woundwort Cabhsadán 158 Stachys sylvatica W Hedge Woundwort Créachtlus 159 Stellaria graminea W Lesser Stitchwort Tursarraing bheag 160 Stellaria holostea W Greater Stitchwort Tursarraing mór 161 Stellaria media W Common Chickweed Fliodh 162 Symphoricarpos albus W Snowberry Póirin sneachta 163 Tanacetum parthenium Feverfew Lus deartán 164 Taraxacum agg. W Dandelion Caisearbhán 165 Torilis japonica W Hedge Parsley Fionnas fáil 166 Trifolium dubium W Lesser trefoil Seamair bhui 167 Trifolium pratense W Red Clover Seamair dhearg 168 Trifolium repens W White Clover Seamair bhán 169 Tripleurospermum inodorum D Scentless Mayweed Meá drua 170 Tussilago farfara A Coltsfoot Sponc 171 Ulmus glabra D Wych Elm Leamhán sléibhe 172 Urtica dioica W Stinging nettle Neantóg 173 Valeriana officinalis D Common Valerian Caorthann corraigh 174 Valerianella carinata U Keeled-fruited Cornsalad Ceathrú uain dhroimneach 175 Veronica anagallis-aquatica D Blue Water-speedwell 176 Veronica beccabunga A Brooklime Lochall 177 Veronica chamaedrys W Germander Speedwell Lus cré talún 178 Veronica persica W Field-speedwell Lus cré garrí 179 Veronica serpyllifolia W Thyme-leaved Speedwell Lus an Treacha 180 Vibernum opulus D Guelder-rose Caor chon 181 Vicia cracca W Tufted Vetch Peasair luan 182 Vicia sativa W Common Vetch Peasair chapaill 183 Vicia sepium W Bush vetch Peasair fhiáin

184 Vinca minor U Lesser Periwinkle Fincín beag 185 Viola reichenbachiana D Early Dog-violet Sailchuach luath 186 Viola riviniana D Dog-violet Fanaigse

Figure 19 - Marsh-marigold - Caltha palustris

2.11 Fungi

The Table below shows the 20 Fungi species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 12 - Table of Fungi recorded during this survey

Fungi 1 Armillaria mellea Honey Fungus 08/10/2017 2 Collybia butyracea Buttercap 08/10/2017 3 Coprinus comatus Shaggy Inkcap/ Lawyer's Wig 08/10/2017 4 Coriolus versicolor Turkeytail 08/10/2017 5 Hebeloma crustuliniforme Poisonpie 08/10/2017 6 Helvella crispa White Saddle 08/10/2017 7 Hygrocybe nigrescens Blackening Wax Cap 08/10/2017 8 Hypholoma fasiciulare Sulphur Tuft 08/10/2017 9 Laccaria amathystea Amethyst Deceiver 08/10/2017 10 Lactarius blennius Beech Milkcap 08/10/2017 11 Lepista nuda Wood Blewit 08/10/2017 12 Lycoperdon pyriforme Stump Puffball 08/10/2017 13 Mucidula mucida Porcelain Fungus 22/11/2020 14 Mycena galericulata Common Bonnet 08/10/2017 15 Oudemansiella mucida Clustered Bonnet 08/10/2017 16 Paxillus involutus Brown Rollrim 22/09/2017 17 Rhytisma acerinum Sycamore Tarspot 14/11/2016 18 Russula mairei Beechwood Sickener 08/10/2017 19 Triphragmium ulmariae Rust Fungus 01/06/2020 20 Xylosphaera hypoxylon Candlesnuff Fungus 08/10/2017

Figure 20 - Beechwood Sickener - Russula mairei

Figure 21 - Sulphur Tuft - Hypholoma fasiculare

Figure 22 - Candle Snuff Fungus - Xylaria hypoxylon

2.12 Galls

The table below shows the 10 Plant Gall species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 13 - Table of Plant Galls recorded during this survey.

Galls Host Plant 1 Aceria fraxinivora Cauliflower Gall Ash 22/08/2017 2 Aceria nalepai Alder gall Alder 15/06/2020 3 Andricus kollari Marble Gall Pedunculate Oak 22/08/2017 4 Andricus lignicola Cola Nut Pedunculate Oak 22/08/2017 5 Andricus quercuscalicis Knopper Gall Pedunculate Oak 22/08/2017 6 Diplolepis rosae Robin's Pincushion Dog-rose 22/08/2017 7 Neuroterus numismalis Silk Button Pedunculate Oak 22/08/2017 8 Neuroterus quercusbaccarum Common Spangle Pedunculate Oak 22/08/2017 9 Pontania proxima Willow Redgall Willow 01/06/2020 10 Rhytisma acerinum Sycamore Tarspot Sycamore 22/08/2017

Figure 23 - Silk Button Gall - Neuroterus numismalis

3 Discussion

3.1 Species results

Table 12 below shows the total number of species per group recorded during this survey. There were 186 higher plants, 57 birds,127 invertebrates, 4 fish, 1 amphibian, 6 mammals, 10 galls, 3 lichen and 20 fungi. A total of 414 species were recorded.

Table 14 Number of species recorded for each group

200

180

160

140

120

100

80 Series1

The invertebrates species recorded during this survey included 14 Butterflies, 12 moths, 13 bees, 36 hoverflies, 4 odonata, 4 shieldbugs, 5 ladybirds, 29 other terrestrial and 10 aquatic species.

3.2 Birds

The total number of bird species recorded was 56.

3.2.1 Formerly Recorded Birds

The list below shows the formerly recorded birds but not seen during this survey.

1. Corncrake - last recorded in co Limerick in 1973. 2. Wood Duck - introduced exotic species that is native to North America 3. Mandarin Duck - an introduced exotic species 4. Woodcock - seen in gardens during the bad weather of 2010

Figure 24 - Wood Duck - Aix sponsa

Wood Duck was introduced to the Arra River but did not survive.

3.2.2 Sparrowhawk

Figure 25 - Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus

I got a call from a friend in town to say that there was a Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus in the Demesne. It was there for about 2 hours plucking the feathers and eating a woodpigeon. I decided to have a look on the off chance that it might still be there. I couldn't believe my luck as I watch this magnificent bird plucking away on the dead pigeon. There were lots of people passing by within 20 feet, but this bird was not going to give up its kill. I got my chance to get some great pictures. Pure magic.

3.2.3 Little Egret

Figure 26 - Little Egret - Egretta garzetta

In 1998 the very first breeding pair of Little Egrets were recorded at Youghall Co Cork. They have become widespread and recently this one had a liking for the trees in South Quay. They have a different method of finding food than the Grey heron. If you watch them closely you will see that the Little Egret shakes its toes in the river bed hoping to find something hiding. The Grey Heron will stand like a statue and wait for the food to come to it.

3.2.4 Grey Heron

Figure 27 - Grey Heron - Ardea cinerea

When I first became interested in birds it took me a year and a half to find my first Grey Heron Ardea cinerea, even though I had been to various places along the Shannon Estuary. Nowadays they are very common. It is unbelievable that Grey Herons are attempting to breed in Newcastle west for the first time in 2020. It will be interesting to see how long they stay for and whether they are successful in rearing young fledglings. They are now regularly seen under the street lamp at North Quay waiting for a fish to jump over the weir.

I can remember quite clearly the day I took a group of boys from the Courtenay Boys school on a survey of the river. When we arrived at South Quay Arra river, there was a Grey Heron standing on the rocks in the river. Then all of a sudden the head moved like lightening and caught a Trout Salmo salmo. The bird turned the head of the fish inwards and then swallowed it whole. Well the boys all gave a cheer in amazement. You don't forget days like that.

3.2.5 Meadow Pipit

Figure 28 - Meadow Pipit - Anthus pratensis

The Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis is a bird associated with wild areas including bogs, mountains and shorelines. They are an indicators of the biodiversity richness of habitats. This year was the first time that I have seen them in Newcastle West even though I have lived here for more than 40 years. Being restricted to where I could travel during the Covid 19 pandemic, meant that I would be spending more time in my home town. I had my first sighting along the Great Southern Greenway at Gortboy. Eventually I found a pair carrying food into some Sallies at the Business Park. Then, during the following week there were juveniles present that had fledged and were constantly calling for food.

3.2.6 Dipper

Figure 29 - Dipper - Cinclus cinclus

There are four birds in Ireland that are of Irish race which includes Coal Tit Parus ater, Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus, Jay Garrulus glandarius and Dipper Cinclus cinclus. Dippers are found along fast flowing, shallow stony rivers. They build a nest under bridges and can be seen under three of the bridges in Newcastle West including the bridges at Bridge Street and St Ita's Road. They are slightly larger than a Robin and have a white breast. It is fascinating to watch them dive under the water to catch invertebrates including mayfly and caddisfly larvae.

3.3 Butterflies

The 14 species of Butterfly are all fairly common and widespread in Ireland. The Holly Blue has only been recently recorded in Newcastle West. This is due to a distribution expansion westward. This butterfly lays its eggs on Holly, hence the name Holly Blue and can be been seen in gardens. If you have to look up to see a blue butterfly flying then it is probably Holly Blue. Whilst the Common Blue butterflies are usually seen flying low over Bird's-foot Trefoil.

There are a number of plants that you can plant in your garden to attract butterflies including Buddleia also known as the butterfly bush. Other plants include Agastache Blue Fortune, Anthemis, Achillea Cloth of Gold, Aubrietia[purple Aster, Erigeron, Sedum, Verbena Bonariensis and Viburnum tinus. I live in Newcastle West and I have recorded in my garden all the species on the butterfly list except the Cryptic Wood White that was recorded in the Castle Demesne.

Figure 30 - Holly Blue - Celastrina argiolus

3.4 Dragonflies and Damselflies

Dragonflies and Damselflies are scarce in the town because of the lack of fresh water habitats on which they depend. The Emperor Dragonfly can travel many miles from where it emerged. This sighting is probably a fly over. They were first recorded in Ireland during the year 2000 and first seen in County Limerick in 2006. Banded and Beautiful Demoiselle were seen in the castle Demesne and lay their eggs in rivers. The eggs hatch as nymphs after a couple of days and then survive as nymphs for two years under water. The emerge as adults usually at the end of May depending on the weather.

Figure 31 - Emperor Dragonfly - Anax imperator

3.5 Hoverflies

Hoverflies are under recorded in Ireland and there are probably more species present in the area. They are very important as pollinators. Some are bumble bee mimics such as Eristalis intricarius seen below. They have no sting and are harmless. In the food cycle they are important as pollinators of flowers. Most of my sightings were in the area where wild flowers are allowed to grow. Grassland is not the preferred habitat for hoverflies.

Figure 32 - Eristalis intricarius

3.6 Aquatic species

All of the aquatic species are fairly widespread and common in Ireland. However, the White Clawed Crayfish has recently suffered from Crayfish Plague. The plague was probably introduced by contaminated fishing gear from another country. All equipment need to be disinfected beforehand. This species will be monitored and only time will tell what the overall impact will be. They were still present in the River Arra during the summer of 2018. These aquatic species were identified in the Dually River between the old and new bridges in the Castle Demesne. Frog spawn was found in a ditch in the Castle Demesne which is indicated on the map[see figure 4 page 9].

3.7 Mammals

Only six species of mammals were recorded during this survey. Most of my sightings are of species running across the road whilst driving or found dead as road kill. I do not put out traps and most mammals are nocturnal which would limit the likelihood of finding them. However, I have received personal comments of other species seen in Newcastle West. These include Badger, Hedgehog, Mink, Otter, Rat, Mice, Bat and Rabbit. Badgers and Foxes have been seen on CCTV and Hedgehogs can visit gardens where there is food available. Most of my sightings are of species running across the road whilst driving or found dead as road kill. I do not put out traps and most mammals are nocturnal which would limit the likelihood of finding them.

Figure 33 - Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris

The Red squirrel was first recorded on 06-11-2020 in the Demesne and is an exciting addition the list of mammals found in the area. They seem to be spreading into West Limerick and are probably under recorded. They scatter hoard nuts and berries for the winter and are easier to find during November to March when they are on the ground.

3.8 Higher Plants

3.9 Fungi

The number of fungi species recorded was 18 and were mainly found in the Castle Demesne. Most fungi live in soil in woodlands and most become obvious in autumn when they produce their reproductive parts known as fruitbodies or “mushrooms”, which appear above ground. These produce huge numbers of microscopic spores.

The fruiting body is the most obvious part of the fungal mycelium, which is usually hidden from view in the soil, decaying wood or in dead standing trees if the fungus is a parasite. The mycelium is a mass of thread-like tubes (hyphae) similar to a massive underground spider web. Most woodland fungi are decomposers or recyclers for example Buttercap.

3.10 Galls

Galls can be caused by wasps that lay their eggs on a specific host plant. Some cause no harm to the tree and other do. The Knopper gall effects the acorn and causes a growth making the seed infertile and unable to grow into a new tree. The species Latin name is similar to that of the host family Latin name Quercus.

Figure 34 - Knopper Gall - Andricus quercuscalicis on Pedunculate Oak -Quercus robur

4 Conclusion

4.1 Castle Demesne

The Castle Demesne has something to look for in every season of the year. During the harsh weather of winter it can be a very quiet place however, mixed flocks of Fieldfare Turdus pilaris and Redwings Turdus iliacus can be seen on the playing fields. As the year turns to spring resident birds are singing and each week brings a new arrival to the chorus. Chiffchaffs Phylloscopus collybita are easily identified by their repeated song. Eventually the blooms of Hazel Corylus avellana and Grey Willows. Salix cinerea appear, followed by the leaves of other trees and everything turns to green. As the bird songs fade away the buzzing of insects can be heard. Eristalis pertinax and Episyrphus balteatus hoverflies are busy pollinating Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris, Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium and Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris.

Some of the Birds and Higher Plants to look for in the Demesne include

Birds Fieldfare Turdus pilaris Merlin Falco columbarius Mistle Thrush Turdus viscivorus Redwing Turdus iliacus Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Treecreeper Certhia familiaris

Higher plants

Veronica anagallis- Blue Water-speedwell aquatica Marsh Marigold Caltha palustris Opposite-leaved Golden- Chrysosplenium Columbine Aquilegia vulgaris saxifrage oppositifolium Common Valerian Valeriana officinalis Pedunculate oak Quercus robur Dog-violet Viola riviniana Pendulous Sedge Carex pendula Early Dog-violet Viola reichenbachiana Ramsons Allium ursinum Enchanter's Nightshade Circaea lutetiana Red Campion Silene diocia False Brome Brachypodium sylvaticum Remote Sedge Carex remota Garlic Mustard Alliaria petiolata Sessile Oak Quercus petraea Great Wood-rush Luzula sylvatica Tufted Hair-grass Deschampsia cespitosa Ground Elder Aegopodium podagraria Wild Cherry Prunus avium Guelder-rose Vibernum opulus Wood Avens Geum urbanum Himalayan Leycesteria formosa Wood-sedge Carex sylvatica

Honeysuckle Yellow Iris Iris pseudacorus

Figure 35 - Marmalade fly - Episyrphus balteatus

4.2 Arra River

The Arra River flows from West to East and eventually meets the River Deel. The limestone bedrock can be seen in the river. This is the perfect habitat for White Clawed Crayfish Austropotamobius pallipes. The fish that can be seen include 3 Spine Stickleback Gasterosteus aculeatus, Minnow Phoxinus phoxinus, Trout Salmo salmo and Stone Loach Barbatula barbatula. Water birds that are typically seen include Dipper Cinclus cinclus, Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinera , Mallard Anus platyrhynchos and Grey Heron Ardea cinerea.

4.3 Great Southern Greenway

The Great Southern Greenway is formerly a disused rail track that connects Limerick City to Tralee via Listowel. The hedgerows along the old rail track have gone wild with flowering plants, buzzing insects and bird song. Along the track towards Barnagh between the bridge and the level crossing you will find Common Spotted Orchids Dactylorhiza fuchsii and Pyramidal orchids Anacamptis pyramidalis. At Gortboy the Blackthorn and Hawthorn hedges provide cover for Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus and Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita.

4.4 Business Park

The Business park has a large area of uncut grassland and Willow scrub. This attracts three birds that are generally found in wild areas which include Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis, Stonechat Saxicola torquata and Reed Bunting Emberiza schoeniclus. They are all indicators of the Biodiversity richness of the habitat. There are areas that have been left untouched for a number of years and allowed to grow wild. Late cutting of the grass has allowed for wild plants to survive and provide food for invertebrates. These invertebrates are eaten by other invertebrates and by birds. The uncut grass also provides ground cover for birds to forage in safety.

Figure 36 - Stonechat - Saxicola torquata

4.5 Overall

This survey successfully recorded species of birds, dragonfly, hoverfly, bumblebee, ladybird, bony fish, other terrestrial invertebrates, flowering plants, plant galls and fungi. However there are many other groups of living things that have not been recorded. Further recording will increase the list of Biodiversity present at Newcastle West.

This survey has identified and recorded many aquatic species such as mayfly and Caddisfly larvae that are indicators of water quality and are sensitive to pollution. The records that were submitted to the NBDC database during this survey will help to fill in the gaps of each species map. This is part of Citizen Science and I am hoping this report will encourage others to start recording and submit records.

The habitat of these species needs to be protected so as to halt the loss of Biodiversity and that future generations will survive. Not only for the benefit of Biodiversity but also for the pleasure it provides to people.

Further information on developing habitats for wildlife can be found in the All Ireland Pollinator Plan, which can be downloaded for free on the web site https://pollinators.ie/. The excellent book Gardening for Biodiversity can be downloaded for free at https://bit.ly/2SeEIRn

Recreation is very important for our well being and connecting to nature is great way of relaxing and gives pleasure to many people. I am hoping that people will look through this report and become more aware of the nature that lives beside us every day.

I get great satisfaction from creating awareness of the living things that live beside us. I hope to encourage others to develop an interest in our heritage and to enjoy it as much as I do.

Finally, I would like to thank all the people I met over the years for passing on information about what they have seen locally. Happy hunting.

5 Reference material

The following books were used for identification of species recorded during this survey.

Collins Bird Guide, [2001] by Killian Mullarney, Lars Svensson, Dan Zetterstrom and Peter J Grant

Collins Flower Guide, [2009] by David Streeter, C. Hart-Davies, A Hardcastle, F. Cole, & L. Harper

Flora of Country Limerick, [2013] by Sylvia C.P. Reynolds, National Botanic Gardens

The Natural History of Ireland's Dragonflies, [2004] by Brian Nelson and Robert Thompson, MAGNI

British Hoverflies, [2002] by Alan E. Stubbs and Steven J. Falk, BENHS

Bird Atlas 2007-11, [2103 ] by Dawn Balmer, Simon Gillings, Brian Caffrey, Bob Swann, Iain Downie and Rob Fuller, BTO books

Identification Guide to Ireland's Ladybirds, [2015] by Colette O' Flynn, Brian J. Pinchen and Una Fitzpatrick, NBDC

Identification Guide to Ireland's Shieldbugs [2012] by Don Cotton, Brian Nelson and Una Fitzpatrick, NBDC

Identification Guide to Ireland's Bumblebees [2010] by Una Fitzpatrick, Andrew Byrne and Bryan J. Pinchen, NBDC

Identification Guide to Ireland's Butterflies [2011] by Eugenie Regan and Liam Lysaght, NBDC

Britain's Plant Galls, [2011] by Michael Chinery, Wild Guides

Mushrooms, [2003] by Patrick Harding, Collins Gem

Face book Pages

Geoff Hunt

Insects/Invertebrates of Ireland

Web sites www.wildflowersofireland.net [Zoe Devlin, Identification by colour] www.naturespot.org.uk [Identification of species]

6 Appendix

See the following pages for images of some of the species seen during this survey.

6.1 Irish Bird name translations

Birds of prey Buzzard Clamhán Sparrowhawk Spioróg Kestrel Pocaire goithe Wind poker Merlin Meirliún Long-eared Owl Ceann cait Cat head Short-eared Owl Ulchabhan reisc White beard of the marsh

Passerines Pheasant Piasún Wood Pigeon Colm coille Pigeon of the wood Collared Dove Fearán baicdhubh Cuckoo Cuach Swift Gabhlán gaoithe Fork [tail] wind Kingfisher Cruidín Sand Martin Gabhlán gainimh Gabhlán=fork[tail] gainimh=hole [Where they nest] Swallow Fáinleog Circling House Martin Gabhlán binne Gabhlán=fork[tail] binne=gable [where they nest] Meadow Pipit Riabhog mhóna Little streaked thing of the bog Pied Wagtail Glasóg shraide Street grey Grey Wagtail Glasóg liath Stream grey [where they are often seen] Blacksmith [Gabha dubh nan allt, Blacksmith of the Dipper Gabha dubh stream] Dunnock Donnóg Small brown Robin Spideog Frail thing, tiny child Stonechat Caislín cloch Castle rock Wheatear Clochrán Shingle beach Song Thrush Smolach smol=stain Redwing Deargán sneachta Red thing of the snow Fieldfare Sacán Little sack Mistle Thrush Liatráisc Grey thrush Blackbird Lon dubh Black blackbird Sedge Warbler Ceolaire cíbe Singer of the sedge Whitethroat Gilphíb Blackcap Caipín dubh cap black Willow Warbler Ceolaire sailí Singer of the sallies[willow] Chiffchaff Tiuf-teaf Goldcrest Ciorbuí Yellow crest Wren Dreoilín small creature or withered

Spotted Flycatcher Cuilire liath Great Tit Meantán mór To show the muscles [ big] Blue Tit Meantán gorm To show the muscles [ blue] Coal Tit Meantán dubh To show the muscles [black] Meantán Long-tailed Tit earrfhada To show the muscles [ long tail] Treecreeper Snag Creep Magpie Snag breac Jay Scréachog screamer Jackdaw Cág old woman Rook Rúcach miser Hooded Crow Feannóg Raven Fiach dubh Black hunter Starling Druid Speckled dress House Sparrow Gealbhan binne Chaffinch Rí rua Red King Linnet Gleoiseach Chatterer Redpoll Deargéadan Common red face Goldfinch Lasair choille Flame of the wood Greenfinch Glasán darach Green of the oak Siskin Siscín Bullfinch Corcrán coille Scarlet of the wood Crossbill Crosghob Reed Bunting Gealóg ghiolcai Bright little thing of the reeds

The Host Plant for the butterfly is shown in the following plant image.