Newcastle West Biodiversity Survey 2020

By Geoff Hunt

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

Table of Contents

Foreword ...... v

1 Introduction ...... 1

1.1 Survey Area ...... 2

1.2 Castle Demesne ...... 3

1.3 Habitat abbreviations ...... 5

1.4 General abbreviations ...... 5

2 Survey Results ...... 6

2.1 Birds ...... 6

2.2 Butterflies ...... 9

2.3 Moths ...... 10

2.4 Odonata ...... 11

2.5 Hoverflies ...... 12

2.6 Bees ...... 14

2.7 Terrestrial invertebrates ...... 15

2.8 Aquatic species ...... 16

2.8.1 Fish ...... 16

2.8.2 Amphibians ...... 17

2.8.3 Mayflies ...... 18

2.8.4 Other aquatic arthropods ...... 18

2.9 Mammals ...... 19

2.10 Higher plants ...... 20

2.11 Fungi ...... 25

2.12 Galls ...... 27

3 Discussion ...... 28

3.1 Species results ...... 28

3.2 Birds ...... 29

3.2.1 Previously Recorded Birds ...... 29

3.2.2 Sparrowhawk ...... 30

3.2.3 Little Egret ...... 31

3.2.4 Grey Heron ...... 32

3.2.5 Meadow Pipit ...... 33

3.2.6 Dipper ...... 34

3.3 Butterflies ...... 35

3.4 Dragonflies and Damselflies ...... 36

3.5 Hoverflies ...... 37

3.6 Aquatic species ...... 37

3.7 Mammals ...... 38

3.8 Higher Plants ...... 39

3.9 Fungi ...... 40

3.10 Galls ...... 40

4 Conclusion ...... 41

4.1 Castle Demesne ...... 41

4.2 Arra River ...... 43

4.3 Great Southern Greenway ...... 44

4.4 Desmond Business Park ...... 45

4.5 Summary ...... 46

Additional sources of information ...... 47

Appendices ...... 48

A: Irish bird name translations ...... 48

B: Limerick Townlands named after animals or plants ...... 50

Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris

This Edition 05-03-2021

Contact Geoff Hunt: 087-7656439, [email protected] Facebook Geoff Hunt

Cover photograph - The Dually River, Castle Demesne

All photographs are by Geoff Hunt except :

iii

Figure 1 - Barn owl Tyto alba

All photographs are by Geoff Hunt except :

Mark Hunt. Frog [page 17], Waxwing [Garden Bird Poster]

Mike Flanagan. Long Tailed Tit [Garden Bird Poster]

Maurice O Connor. Barn Owl

I would like to thank Julian Reynolds for proof reading and suggestions on text and layout.

I would like to thank Sylvia Reynolds for guidance on plant identification.

I would like to thank David Hunt for his guidance on design and layout of Tables and Figures

I would also like to thank Vicki Nash for the foreword and the Newcastle West Tidy Towns for the work they do around the town. Best of luck for the future.

Foreword In existence for more than half a century Newcastle West Tidy Towns began its history by enhancing the town’s appearance with flower beds and baskets and by working to create a litter free environment.

As the world in general became more aware of the need to protect and develop biodiversity and sustainability Tidy Towns has expanded its ethos and activities. We actively work to ensure the protection and develop more biodiverse habitats; to engage with and educate all ages on the importance of these matters; and to work with the community in the achievement of our goals.

Knowledge about our natural environment and its biodiversity is essential. So we are blessed to have the expertise of Geoff Hunt, Biodiversity Consultant on our doorstep to guide us. Geoff generously shares his wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm through Biodiversity Reports and guided visits. The arrival of COVID-19 afforded Geoff more opportunities to explore the habitats in the 5km surrounds of the town and to produce his updated Newcastle West Biodiversity Study with new discoveries of flora and fauna.

The Castle Demesne, the parkland just off the town Square provides a home for a wide variety of flora and fauna and is a valuable educational tool. The arrival of Red Squirrels in the Demesne in late 2020 is indicative of just how people can be enthused about biodiversity and aware of the need to protect our natural environment. Still biodiversity and sustainability are relevant to everyone’s garden and neighbourhood and studies such as this one are of assistance to all.

A welcome addition to the latest study is the inclusion of biological names in both English and Irish.

We are delighted to share this report as a valuable educational tool for individuals, families and community groups. Enjoy.

Bain sult as an méid atá le rá ag Geoff sa tuairisc seo.

Newcastle West Tidy Towns Baile Slachtmara an Chaisleán Nua Thiar

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 [Ordnance Survey of Ireland 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 Higher Plants.

The methods used include binoculars, butterfly net, pond net, camera , microscope and visual sightings. This survey includes my own personal sightings from January 2016 to December 2020. All records have been submitted to the National Biodiversity Data Centre in Waterford and will be included onto their online maps.

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. Including built up areas of streets, housing and gardens, River Arra, Business park, Great Southern Greenway [a disused rail track] and the Castle Demesne. The Demesne 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 [ Figure 3].

Figure 3 - Sketch map of Newcastle West.

1.2 Castle Demesne The Castle Demesne Diméin an Chaisleáin [ Figure 4], is commonly known as The Diméin. 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 Diméin an Chaisleáin

This Song Thrush [ Figure 5] 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 5 - Song Thrush - Turdus philomelos.

The Grey Heron [ Figure 6] is now a regular feature at South Quay waiting for fish near the weir.

Figure 6 - Grey Heron - Ardea cinerea. 4

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 built up areas. Some species are found in more than one habitat and are indicated as widespread. Abbreviations are shown after the name of each species.

Table 1 below shows the abbreviations for the habitat where each species was found.

Table 1 - Habitat abbreviations. Abbreviations Habitat A Arra River B Business park D Castle Demesne G Great Southern Greenway U Urban W Widespread

1.4 General abbreviations Table 2 below shows the general abbreviations used in this survey report.

Table 2 - General abbreviations. Abbreviations Description 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 covert pond in the Castle Demesne.

2 Survey Results The following section contains survey results for 12 species categories, observed during this survey, between January 2016 and December 2020.

2.1 Birds Table 3 lists 57 bird species that have been identified and records submitted to the NBDC during this survey. The abbreviated capitol letter after the English name indicates which habitat the bird was found.

Table 3 - List of birds. No. Water Birds Scientific Name Irish Name Date 1 Mallard A Anas platyrhynchos Mallard 30/03/2020 2 Grey Heron A Ardea cineria Corr riasc 02/04/2020 3 Little Egret A Egretta garzetta Éigrit bheag 20/01/2019 4 Black-headed Gull A Chroicocephalus ridibundus Faoileán ceanndhubh 04/02/2016 5 Lesser Black-backed Gull A Larus fuscus Droimneach beag 04/04/2020 6 Snipe U Gallinago gallinago Naoscach 02/04/2020

Table 3 - List of birds continued. No. Birds of prey Scientific Name Irish Name Date 7 Buzzard U Buteo buteo Clamhán 06/04/2020 8 Sparrowhawk W Accipiter nisus Spioróg 25/03/2020 9 Merlin D Falco columbarius Meirliún 30/03/2020 10 Kestrel W Falco tinnunculus Pocaire goithe 30/03/2020 11 Long-eared Owl G Asio otis Ulchabhán fadchluasach 22/05/2015 12 Barn Owl U Tyto alba Mulchán 20/06/2014 No. Passerines Scientific Name Irish Name Date 13 Wood Pigeon W Columba palumbus Colm coille 02/04/2020 14 Collared Dove W Streptopelia decaocto Fearán baicdhubh 22/03/2020 15 Swift W Apus apus Gabhlán gaoithe 29/04/2020 16 Sand Martin A Riparia riparia Gabhlán gainimh 04/04/2020 17 Swallow U Hirundo rustica Fáinleog 06/04/2020 18 House Martin U Delichon urbicum Gabhlán binne 29/05/2020 19 Meadow Pipit B Anthus pratensis Riabhog mhóna 04/05/2020 20 Pied Wagtail W Motacilla alba yarrelli Glasóg shraide 02/04/2020 21 Grey Wagtail A Motacilla cinera Glasóg liath 02/04/2020 22 Dipper A Cinclus cinclus Gabha dubh 22/03/2020 23 Dunnock W Prunella modularis Donnóg 22/03/2020 24 Robin W Erithacus rubecula Spideog 22/03/2020 25 Stonechat B Saxicola torquata Caislín cloch 04/05/2020 26 Song Thrush W Turdus philomelos Smolach 22/03/2020 27 Redwing D Turdus iliacus Deargán sneachta 19/01/2019 28 Fieldfare D Turdus pilaris Sacán 20/01/2021 29 Mistle Thrush D Turdus viscivorus Liatráisc 02/04/2020 30 Blackbird W Turdus merula Lon dubh 22/03/2020 31 Blackcap W Sylvia atricapilla Caipín dubh 22/03/2020 32 Willow Warbler W Phylloscopus trochilus Ceolaire sailí 16/04/2020 33 Chiffchaff W Phylloscopus collybita Tiuf-teaf 22/03/2020 34 Goldcrest W Regulus regulus Ciorbuí 22/03/2020 35 Wren W Troglodytes troglodytes Dreoilín 22/03/2020 37 Spotted Flycatcher D Muscicapa striata Cuilire liath 09/05/2016 36 Great Tit W Parus major Meantán mór 22/03/2020 38 Blue Tit W Cyanistes caeruleus Meantán gorm 22/03/2020 39 Coal Tit W Periparus ater Meantán dubh 02/04/2020 40 Long-tailed Tit W Aegithalos caudatus Meantán earrfhada 20/04/2020 41 Treecreeper D Certhia familiaris Snag 22/03/2020 42 Jay D Garrulus glandarius Scréachóg 06/11/2020 43 Magpie W Pica pica Snag breac 02/04/2020 44 Jackdaw W Corvus monedula Cág 22/03/2020 45 Rook W Corvus frugilegus Ruach 22/03/2020 46 Hooded Crow W Corvus cornix Feannóg 02/04/2020

Table 3 - List of birds Continued. No. Passerines Scientific Name Irish Name Date 47 Raven W Corvus corax Fiach dubh 02/04/2020 48 Starling W Sturnus vulgaris Druid 02/04/2020 49 House Sparrow W Passer domesticus Gealbhan binne 02/04/2020 50 Chaffinch W Frigilla coelebs Rí rua 22/03/2020 51 Linnet B Carduelis cannabina Gleoiseach 02/04/2020 52 Lesser Redpoll W Carduelis cabaret Deargéadan 17/02/2020 53 Goldfinch W Carduelis carduelis Lasair choille 22/03/2020 54 Greenfinch W Carduelis chloris Glasán darach 22/03/2020 55 Siskin W Carduelis spinus Siscín 02/04/2020 56 Bullfinch W Pyrrhula pyrrhula Corcrán coille 02/04/2020 57 Reed Bunting B Emberiza schoeniclus Gealóg ghiolcai 30/04/2020

Figure 8 - Collared Dove - Streptopelia decaocto.

2.2 Butterflies Table 4 lists 14 butterfly species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 4 - List of butterflies. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 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 cardamine.

2.3 Moths Table 5 lists 12 moth species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 5 - List of moths. No. Scientific Name English Name Date 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 Odonata Table 6 lists 4 species of odonata that have been identified and recorded during this survey. Dragonflies and Damselflies are collectively known as odonata.

Table 6 - List of Odonata. No. Scientific Name English Name Date

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 Table 7 lists 36 species of hoverfly that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 7 - List of hoverflies. No. Scientific Name English Name Date

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 13 - Great Pied Hoverfly - Volucella pellucens. 13

2.6 Bees Table 8 lists 13 bee species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 8 - List of bees. No. Scientific Name English Name Date 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 14 - Bombus pratorum.

2.7 Terrestrial invertebrates Table 9 lists 28 terrestrial invertebrate species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 9 - List of terrestrial invertebrates. No. Scientific Name English Name Date Worms

1 Eisenia fetida Manure Worm 24/04/2017 Slugs

2 Lehmannia valentiana Greenhouse Slug 12/04/2017 Crustaceans

3 Armadillidium vulgare Common Pill Woodlouse 24/04/2017 4 Oniscus asellus Common Shiny Woodlouse 24/04/2017 5 Porcellio scaber Common Rough Woodlouse 24/04/2017 Arachnids

6 Dysdera crocata Woodlouse Spider 13/04/2020 7 Larinioides cornutus Spider 21/04/2020 8 Nemastoma bimaculatum Harvestman 18/09/2018 9 Philodromus dispar Running Crab Spider 01/06/2020 10 Pholcidae sp. Daddy-long-legs spiders 21/04/2020 11 Pisaura mirabilis Nursery Web Spider 13/04/2020 12 Tegenaria domestica Common House Spider 13/04/2020 Other invertebrates

13 Calocoris stysi Bug 18/06/2020 14 Chloromyia formosa Broad Centurion 01/06/2020 15 Chorthippus brunneus Field Grasshopper 15/06/2020 16 Chrysopilus cristatus Black Snipefly 01/06/2020 17 Forficula auricularia Common Earwig 12/04/2017 18 Gastrophysa viridula Green Dock Beetle 21/04/2020 19 Leptopterna dolabrata Meadow Plant Bug 18/06/2020 20 Liophloeus tessulatus Weevil 01/06/2020 21 Ocypus olens Devil's Coach-horse 13/04/2020 22 Oedemera nobilis Click beetle 07/05/2020 23 Pontania proxima Sawfly 01/06/2020 24 Rhagio scolopaceus Downlooker Snipefly 01/06/2020 25 Taphrina betulina Birch Besom 13/04/2020 26 Tenthredo mesomela Sawfly 01/06/2020 27 Tetrix subulata Slender Groundhopper 04/05/2020 28 Tipula maxima Cranefly 07/05/2020

Figure 15 - Hawthorn Shieldbug - Ancanthosoma haemorrhoidale.

2.8 Aquatic species

2.8.1 Fish Table 10 lists 4 fish species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 10 - List of fish. No. Scientific Name English Name Date 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 16 - 3-spine Stickleback - Gasterosteus aculeatus. 16

2.8.2 Amphibians Table 11 lists 1 amphibian species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 11 - List of amphibians. No. Scientific Name English Name Date 1 Rana temporaria Common Frog 20/03/2021

Figure 17 - Frog - Rana temporaria.

2.8.3 Mayflies Table 12 lists 4 mayfly species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 12 - List of mayflies. No. Scientific Name English name Date 1 Ecdyonurus insignis Large 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 Table 13 lists 6 other aquatic arthropod species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 13 - List of other aquatic arthropods. No. Scientific Name English name Date 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 18 - Great Diving Water Beetle - Dytiscus marginalis.

2.9 Mammals Table 14 lists 6 mammal species identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 14 - List of mammals. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 1 Mus musculus House Mouse Luch thí 27/06/2020 2 Mustela erminea subsp.hibernica Irish Stoat Easóg 09/07/2018 3 Myodes glareolus Bank Vole Luch rua 23/12/2019 4 Rattus norvegicus Brown Rat Francach 07/04/2017 5 Sciurus vulgaris Red Squirrel Iora rua 06/11/2020 6 Vulpes vulpes Fox Sionnach 21/03/2014

Figure 19 - Bank Vole - Myodes glareolus.

2.10 Higher plants Table 15 lists 188 Higher plants species identified and recorded during this survey. Higher plants are known as Vascular Plants which include mainly flowering plants, ferns and horsetails. The abbreviated capitol letter shown after the scientific name indicates which habitat the plants was found.

Table 15 - List of higher plants. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 1 Acer pseudoplatanus W Sycamore Seiceamóir 30/03/2020 2 Aegopodium podagraria D Ground Elder Lus an easpaig 30/03/2020 3 Aesculus hippocastanum W Horse Chestnut Crann cnó capaill 30/03/2020 4 Alliaria petiolata D Garlic Mustard Bóchinneal 20/04/2020 5 Allium triquetrum U Three-cornered Garlic Glaschreamh 13/04/2020 6 Allium ursinum D Ramsons Creamh 01/04/2020 7 Alnus glutinosa D Alder Fearnóg 30/03/2020 8 Alopecurus pratensis D Meadow Foxtail 01/06/2020

9 Anacamptis pyramidalis G Pyramidal Orchid Magairlín na stuaice 15/06/2020 10 Anagallis arvensis G Scarlet Pimpernel Falcaire fiáin 03/07/2020 11 Anthoxanthum odoratum B Sweet Vernal-grass 01/06/2020

12 Anthriscus sylvestris W Cow Parsley Peirsil bhó 30/03/2020 13 Apium nodiflorum W Fool's-water-cress Gunna uisce 15/06/2020 14 Aquilegia vulgaris D Columbine Colaimbín 22/04/2020 15 Arctium minus A Lesser Burdock 27/06/2020

16 Arrhenatherum elatius G False Oat-grass 18/06/2020

17 Arum maculatum D Lords and ladies Cluas chaoin 30/03/2020 18 Asplenium ceterach U Rustyback Raithneach rua 03/04/2020 19 Asplenium ruta-muraria U Wall-rue Luibh na seacht 02/04/2020 20 Asplenium scolopendrium W Hart's-tongue Fern Creamh na muice fia 30/03/2020 21 Asplenium trichomanes U Maidenhair Spleenwort Lus ns seilge 30/03/2020 22 Athyrium filix-femina G Lady-fern 01/06/2020

23 Bellis perennis W Daisy Nóinín 30/03/2020 24 Blackstonia perfoliata B Yellow-wort Dréimire bui 15/06/2020 25 Brachypodium sylvaticum D False Brome 22/06/2020

26 Brassica rapa D Turnip 30/03/2020

27 Briza media G Quaking-grass 03/07/2020

28 Caltha palustris D Marsh-marigold Lus buí Bealtaine 31/03/2020 29 Calystegia sepium D Hedge Bindweed Lalus fáil 27/06/2020 30 Capsella bursa-pastoris W Shepherd's-purse Lus an sparáin 01/06/2020 31 Cardamine flexuosa U Wavy Bitter-cress Searbh-bhiolar casta 06/04/2020 32 Cardamine hirsuta U Hairy Bitter-cress Searbh-bhiolar giobach 06/04/2020 33 Cardamine pratensis W Lady's Smock Biolar gréagáin 06/04/2020 34 Carex flacca Glaucous Sedge 15/06/2020

35 Carex otrubae B False Fox-sedge 18/06/2020

Table 15 - List of higher plants continued. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 36 Carex pendula D Pendulous Sedge 07/05/2020

37 Carex remota D Remote Sedge 01/06/2020

38 Carex sylvatica D Wood-sedge 01/06/2020

39 Centaurea nigra W Common Knapweed Minscoth 18/06/2020 40 Centaurium erythraea B Common Centuary Dréimire Muire 27/06/2020 41 Centranthus ruber U Red Valerian Slán iomaire 06/04/2020 42 Cerastium fontanum W Common Mouse-ear Cluas luchóige choiteann 06/04/2020 43 Chamerion angustifolium G Rosebay Willowherb Lus na tine 18/06/2020 Chrysosplenium 44 Opposite-leaved Golden-saxifrage Glóiris 01/04/2020 oppositifolium D 45 Circaea lutetiana D Enchanter's-nightshade Fuinseagach 03/07/2020 46 Cirsium arvense W Creeping thistle Feochadán reatha 14/04/2020 47 Cirsium palustre W Marsh Thistle Feochadán corraigh 15/06/2020 48 Cirsium vulgare W Spear Thistle Feochadán colgach 30/03/2020 49 Conium maculatum U Hemlock Moiong mhear 03/07/2020 50 Conopodium majus D Pignut Cúlarán 20/04/2020 51 Corylus avellana W Hazel Coll 01/06/2020 52 Crataegus monogyna W Hawthorn Sceach gheal 30/03/2020 53 Cymbalaria muralis U Ivy-leaved Toadflax Buaflíon balla 30/03/2020 54 Cynosurus B Crested Dog's-tail 15/06/2020

55 Dactylis glomerata W Cock's-foot Garbhfhéar 27/04/2020 56 Dactylorhiza fuchsii G Common Spotted-orchid Nuacht bhallach 15/06/2020 57 Daucus carota W Wild Carrot Mealbhacán 30/03/2020 58 Deschampsia cespitosa D Tufted Hair-grass 03/07/2020

59 Dipsacus fullonum G Wild Teasel Leadán úcaire 15/06/2020 60 Dryopteris filix-mas W Male -fern Raithneach mhadra 30/03/2020 61 Elytrigia repens W Common Couch 18/06/2020

62 Epilobium ciliatum U American Willowherb Saileachán sráide 22/06/2020 63 Epilobium hirsutum W Great Willowherb Lus na Tríonóide 15/06/2020 64 Epilobium obscurum U Short-fruited Willowherb Saileachán caol 15/06/2020 65 Epilobium parviflorum W Hoary Willowherb Saileachán liath 15/06/2020 66 Equisetum arvense W Field Horsetail Scuab eich ghoirt 14/04/2020 67 Equisetum fluviatile W Water Horsetail 01/06/2020

68 Erophila verna U Common Whitlowgrass Bosán anagair 31/03/2020 69 Euonymus europaeus G Spindle Feoras 03/07/2020 70 Eupatorium cannabinum A Hemp-agrimony Cnáib uisce 27/06/2020 71 Euphorbia helioscopia D Sun Spurge Lus na bhfaithni 03/07/2020 72 Euphorbia peplus A Petty Spurge Gearr numhe 01/04/2020 73 Fallopia japonica U Japanese Knotweed Glúineach bhiorach 06/04/2020 74 Ficaria verna W Lesser Celandine Grán arcáin 30/03/2020 75 Filipendula ulmaria W Meadowsweet Airgead luachra 31/03/2020 76 Fragaria vesca G Wild Strawberry Sú talún fiáin 15/06/2020 77 Fraxinus excelsior W Ash Fuinseóg 03/04/2020

Table 15 - List of higher plants continued. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 78 Galium aparine W Cleavers Garbhlus 30/03/2020 79 Geranium dissectum W Cut-leaved Cranesbill Crobh giobach 15/06/2020 80 Geranium lucidum G Shining Crane's-bill Crobh geal 18/06/2020 81 Geranium robertainum W Herb-robert Ruithéal ri 30/03/2020 82 Geum urbanum D Wood Avens Macall cille 22/04/2020 83 Hedera helix W Ivy Eidhneán 30/03/2020 84 Heracleum sphondylium W Hogweed Feabhrán 30/03/2020 85 Holcus lanatus W Yorkshire-fog 18/06/2020

86 Hyacinthoides x massartiana P D Spanish Bluebell 27/04/2020

87 Hypericum androsaemum G Tutsan Meas torc allta 27/06/2020 88 Ilex aquilfolium D Holly Cuileann 30/03/2020 89 Impatiens glandulifera A Himalayan Balsam Lus na pléisce 01/04/2020 90 Iris pseudacorus D Yellow Iris Feileastram 01/04/2020 91 Juncus conglomeratus G Compact Rush 18/06/2020

92 Juncus effusus W Soft-rush 03/07/2020

93 Juncus inflexus W Hard Rush 03/07/2020

94 Lamium purpureum W Red Dead-nettle Caichneantóg dhearg 03/04/2020 95 Lapsana communis W Nipplewort Duilleog Bhride 15/06/2020 96 Lathyrus pratensis W Meadow Vetchling Peasairin bui 01/06/2020 97 Leucanthemum vulgare W Oxeye Daisy Nóinín mór 29/04/2020 98 Leycesteria formosa D Himalayan Honeysuckle Féithleann álain 20/04/2020 99 Lonicera periclymenum W Honeysuckle Féithleann 15/06/2020 100 Lotus corniculatus G Common Bird's-foot Trefoil Crobh éin 01/06/2020 101 Lotus pendunculatus W Greater Bird's-foot Trefoil Crobh éin corraigh 18/06/2020 102 Luzula campestris B Field Wood-rush 25/04/2020

103 Luzula sylvatica D Great Wood-rush 30/03/2020

104 Lythrum salicaria B Purple-loosestrife Créatach 10/07/2020 105 Matricaria discoidea W Pineapple Mayweed Lus na hiothlann 03/04/2020 106 Medicago lupulina W Black Medick Dúmheidic 22/04/2020 107 Myosotis arvensis W Field Forget-me-not Lus míonla goirt 01/04/2020 108 Odontites vernus B Red Bartsia Hocus tae 10/07/2020 109 Oenanthe crocata A Hemlock Water-dropwort Dáthabha bán 30/03/2020 110 Papaver rhoeas U Poppy Cailleach dhearg 03/07/2020 111 Parietaria judaica U Pellitory-of-the-wall Feabhraid reatha 31/03/2020 112 Persicaria maculosa W Redshank Glúineach dhearg 01/06/2020 113 Petasites hybridus Butterbur Gallán mór 01/04/2020 114 Petasites fragrans A Winter Heliotrope Plúr na gréine 01/04/2020 115 Phalaris arundinacea A Reed Canary-grass 27/06/2020

116 Phleum pratense B Timothy 02/04/2020

117 Plantago lanceolata W Ribwort Plantain Slánlus 30/03/2020 118 Plantago major W Greater Plantain Cuach Phádraig 30/03/2020 119 Pilosella officinarum G Mouse-ear-hawkweed Searbh na muc 15/06/2020 120 Pimpinella major G Greater Burnet-saxifrage 03/07/2020

Table 15 - List of higher plants continued. No. Scientific Name English Name Irish Name Date 121 Polypodium vulgare s.s. W Polypody 01/06/2020

122 Polystitchum setiferum W Soft Shield-fern 01/06/2020

123 Populus alba U White Poplar 27/04/2020

124 Potentilla anserina W Silverweed Briosclán 07/05/2020 125 Potentilla reptans Creeping Cinquefoil Cúig mhéar Mhuire 18/06/2020 126 Primula veris B Cowslip Blainne bó bleachtáin 29/04/2020 127 Primula vulgaris D Primrose Sabhaircin 30/03/2020 128 Prunella vulgaris W Self Heal Duán ceannchosach 01/06/2020 129 Prunus avium D Wild Cherry Silín 31/03/2020 130 Prunus spinosa W Blackthorn Draighean 03/04/2020 131 Pteridium aquilinum W Bracken Raithneach mhór 01/04/2020 132 Quercus petraea D Sessile Oak Dair ghaelach 30/03/2020 133 Quercus robur D Pendunculate Oak Dair 30/03/2020 134 Ranunculus acris W Meadow Buttercup Fearbhán féir 30/03/2020 135 Ranunculus penicillatus A Stream Water-crowfoot Néal uisce bréige 31/03/2020 136 Ranunculus repens W Creeping Buttercup Fearbhán 30/03/2020 137 Reseda luteola D Weld Bui mór 15/06/2020 138 Rosa canina agg. W Dog-rose Feirdhris 01/04/2020 139 Rubus fruticosus agg. W Bramble Dris 30/03/2020 140 Rumex acetosa W Common Sorrel Samhadh bó 29/04/2020 141 Rumex crispus Curled Dock 14/04/2020

142 Rumex obtusifolius G Broad-leaved Dock Copóg 30/03/2020 143 Sagina procumbens U Procumbent Pearlwort Mongán sinte 17/04/2020 144 Salix cinerea W Grey Willow Saileach 30/03/2020 145 Salix fragilis A Crack-willow Saileach 27/04/2020 146 Sambucus nigra W Elder Trom 30/03/2020 147 Saxifraga tridactylites U Rue-leaved Saxifrage Móran balla 31/03/2020 148 Scrophularia auriculata W Water Figwort Donnlus uisce 15/06/2020 149 Senecio aquaticus B Marsh Ragwort Buachalán corraigh 15/06/2020 150 Senecio jacobaea W Ragwort Buachalán bui 30/03/2020 151 Senecio vulgaris W Groundsel Grúnlas 30/03/2020 152 Silene diocia P D Red Campion Coireán coilleach 20/04/2020 153 Silene flos-cuculi B Ragged-robin Lus sioda 01/06/2020 154 Sisymbrium officinale U Hedge Mustard Lus an óir 03/07/2020 155 Solanum dulcamara G Bittersweet Fuath gorm 22/06/2020 156 Solanum nigrum B Black Nightshade Fuath dubh 28/06/2020 157 Sonchus oleraceus W Smooth Sow-thistle Bleachtán mín 30/03/2020 158 Sorbus aucuparia D Mountain Ash Caorthann 30/03/2020 159 Stachys palustris B Marsh Woundwort Cabhsadán 27/06/2020 160 Stachys sylvatica W Hedge Woundwort Créachtlus 27/06/2020 161 Stellaria graminea W Lesser Stitchwort Tursarraing bheag 18/06/2020 162 Stellaria holostea W Greater Stitchwort Tursarraing mór 30/03/2020

Table 15 - List of higher plants continued. No. Scientific Name English name Irish name Date 163 Stellaria media W Common Chickweed Fliodh 30/03/2020 164 Symphoricarpos albus W Snowberry Póirin sneachta 30/03/2020 165 Tanacetum parthenium Feverfew Lus deartán 30/10/2020 166 Taraxacum agg. W Dandelion Caisearbhán 15/06/2020 167 Torilis japonica W Hedge Parsley Fionnas fáil 24/07/2020 168 Trifolium dubium W Lesser trefoil Seamair bhui 22/04/2020 169 Trifolium pratense W Red Clover Seamair dhearg 31/03/2020 170 Trifolium repens W White Clover Seamair bhán 01/06/2020 171 Tripleurospermum inodorum D Scentless Mayweed Meá drua 03/04/2020 172 Tussilago farfara A Coltsfoot Sponc 30/03/2020 173 Ulmus glabra D Wych Elm Leamhán sléibhe 30/03/2020 174 Urtica dioica W Stinging nettle Neantóg 30/03/2020 175 Valeriana officinalis D Common Valerian Caorthann corraigh 22/06/2020 176 Valerianella carinata U Keeled-fruited Cornsalad Ceathrú uain dhroimneach 25/04/2020 177 Veronica anagallis-aquatica D Blue Water-speedwell 15/06/2020

178 Veronica beccabunga A Brooklime Lochall 31/03/2020 179 Veronica chamaedrys W Germander Speedwell Lus cré talún 27/04/2020 180 Veronica persica W Field-speedwell Lus cré garrí 31/03/2020 181 Veronica serpyllifolia W Thyme-leaved Speedwell Lus an Treacha 20/04/2020 182 Vibernum opulus D Guelder-rose Caor chon 01/06/2020 183 Vicia cracca W Tufted Vetch Peasair luan 18/06/2020 184 Vicia sativa W Common Vetch Peasair chapaill 14/04/2020 185 Vicia sepium W Bush vetch Peasair fhiáin 22/04/2020 186 Vinca major U Greater Periwinkle Fincín mór 01/04/2020 187 Viola reichenbachiana D Early Dog-violet Sailchuach luath 30/03/2020 188 Viola riviniana D Dog-violet Fanaigse 30/03/2020

Figure 20 - Marsh-marigold - Caltha palustris.

2.11 Fungi Table 16 lists 22 Fungi species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 16 - List of Fungi. No. Scientific Name English Name Date

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 Flammulina velutipes Velvet Shank 11/01/2021

6 Ganoderma applanatum Artist's Bracket 11/01/2021

7 Hebeloma crustuliniforme Poisonpie 08/10/2017

8 Helvella crispa White Saddle 08/10/2017

9 Hygrocybe nigrescens Blackening Wax Cap 08/10/2017

10 Hypholoma fasiciulare Sulphur Tuft 08/10/2017

11 Laccaria amathystea Amethyst Deceiver 08/10/2017

12 Lactarius blennius Beech Milkcap 08/10/2017

13 Lepista nuda Wood Blewit 08/10/2017

14 Lycoperdon pyriforme Stump Puffball 08/10/2017

15 Mucidula mucida Porcelain Fungus 22/11/2020

16 Mycena galericulata Common Bonnet 08/10/2017

17 Oudemansiella mucida Clustered Bonnet 08/10/2017

18 Paxillus involutus Brown Rollrim 22/09/2017

19 Rhytisma acerinum Sycamore Tarspot 14/11/2016

20 Russula mairei Beechwood Sickener 08/10/2017

21 Triphragmium ulmariae Rust Fungus 01/06/2020

22 Xylosphaera hypoxylon Candlesnuff Fungus 08/10/2017

Figure 21 - Beechwood Sickener - Russula mairei. 25

Figure 22 - Sulphur Tuft - Hypholoma fasiculare.

Figure 23 - Candle Snuff Fungus - Xylaria hypoxylon.

2.12 Galls Table 17 lists 10 plant gall species that have been identified and recorded during this survey.

Table 17 - List of plant galls. No. Scientific Name English name Host Plant Date 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 24 - Silk Button Gall - Neuroterus numismalis.

3 Discussion

3.1 Species results Figure 25 shows the total number of species per category recorded during this survey. There were 188 higher plants, 57 birds,127 invertebrates, 4 fish, 1 amphibian, 6 mammals, 10 galls, 3 lichen and 22 fungi. A total of 418 species were recorded.

No. of species 200 188 180

160

140 127 120

100

80 57 60

40 22 20 6 10 3 4 1 0

Figure 25 - Total number of species per category.

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 Previously Recorded Birds The following list includes previously recorded birds not seen during this survey.

1. Corncrake - last recorded in Co. Limerick in 1973; 2. Wood Duck [ Figure 26] - introduced exotic species that is native to North America; 3. Mandarin Duck - an introduced exotic species; 4. Woodcock - seen in a garden during the bad weather of 2010; 5. Moorhen - seen on the Arra River at South Quay; 6. Cuckoo - Heard Calling near the Castle Demesne.

Figure 26 - Wood Duck - Aix sponsa.

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

3.2.2 Sparrowhawk

Figure 27 - Sparrowhawk - Accipiter nisus.

I got a call from a friend in town to say that there was a Sparrowhawk Accipiter nisus [Figure 27] in the Demesne. It was there for about 2 hours plucking the feathers and eating a Woodpigeon Columba palumbus. 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 28 - Little Egret - Egretta garzetta.

In 1998 the very first breeding pair of Little Egrets Egretta garzetta [Figure 28] 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 Ardea cinerea. 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 [Figure 29] will stand like a statue and wait for the food to come to it.

3.2.4 Grey Heron

Figure 29 - 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 [Figure 29], even though I had been to various places along the Shannon Estuary. Nowadays they are very common. It is unbelievable for me, 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 [ Figure 46]. 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 30 - Meadow Pipit - Anthus pratensis.

The Meadow Pipit Anthus pratensis [Figure 30] is 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 [ Error! Reference source not found.]. Eventually I found a pair carrying food into some Sallies at the Business Park [ Figure 41]. Then, during the following week there were juveniles present that had fledged and were constantly calling for food.

3.2.6 Dipper

Figure 31 - Dipper - Cinclus cinclus hibernicus.

There are four birds in Ireland that are considered of Irish race which includes Coal Tit Parus ater, Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus, Jay Garrulus glandarius and Dipper Cinclus cinclus hibernicus [Figure 31]. 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. They are associated with fast-flowing rivers and streams. My Facebook page shows a video of a Dipper dipping in and out of the water.

3.3 Butterflies The 14 species of Butterfly are all fairly common and widespread in Ireland. The Holly Blue Celastrina argiolus [ Figure 32] has only been recently recorded in Newcastle West. This is due to a distribution expansion westward. This blue butterfly lays its eggs on Holly Hedera helix, hence the name Holly Blue and can be been seen in gardens. If you have to look up when you see a blue butterfly flying then it is probably Holly Blue. Whilst the Common Blue Polyommatus icarus butterflies are usually seen flying lower down 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 Leptidea sp. that was recorded in the Castle Demesne.

Figure 32 - 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 [ Figure 33] 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 Demoiselle Calopteryx splendens [ Figure 11] and Beautiful Demoiselle Calopteryx virgo 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. They emerge as adults usually at the end of May depending on the weather.

Figure 33 - Emperor Dragonfly - Anax imperator.

3.5 Hoverflies Hoverflies are under recorded in Ireland as there are very few people recording them. There are probably more species present in the area. Hoverflies are very important as pollinators. Some are bumble bee mimics such as Eristalis intricarius [ Figure 34]. They have no sting and are harmless. Most of my sightings were in the area where wild flowers are allowed to grow. Grassland is not the preferred habitat for hoverflies.

Figure 34 - 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 needs 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 2016. These aquatic species were identified in the Dually River between the old and new bridges in the Castle Demesne. Frog spawn [ Figure 17] was found in a ditch and in the Fox Covert Pond [ Figure 7] in the Castle Demesne which is indicated on the map [ Figure 4].

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, 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 35 - Red Squirrel - Sciurus vulgaris.

The Red squirrel [ Figure 35] was first recorded on 02-11-2020 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. Personal comments from people living nearby have said that Red squirrels have been seen in Monagae, The Old Mill, Ballyfrawley, Carrigkerry and Ardagh. 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 An impressive list of 188 Higher plants recorded during this survey is a reflection of the mosaic of habitats in Newcastle West. However, not all of these are natives[Black Nightshade Solanum nigrum [ Figure 36]. There are a few invasive aliens included on this list which are regarded as a major threat to native biodiversity. They can displace native plants [Winter Heliotrope Petasites fragrans] and hybridize [Spanish Bluebell Hyacinthoides x massartiana ] which leads to a loss of species. They can have an economic impact [Japanese Knotweed Fallopia japonica] and cause habitat change [Himalayan Balsam Impatiens glandulifera].

The presence of wild plants indicates the habitat in which they grow. Some species are generalist and can be found in many types of habitat. There are a number of habitat specialists that can only be found in certain conditions [Stream Water-crowfoot Ranunculus penicillatus]. Wild plants provide food and shelter for other life forms including invertebrates, mammals and birds. The greater variety of plants supports a greater variety of living things, biodiversity richness.

Figure 36 - Black Nightshade - Solanum nigrum.

3.9 Fungi The number of fungi species recorded was 18 and were all 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 [ Figure 37] 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 37 - 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 Blackbirds Turdus merula, Song Thrush Turdus philomelos [ Figure 5] and Redwings Turdus iliacus can be seen on the amongst the fallen leaves looking for worms. 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 Willow Salix cinerea appear, followed by the leaves of other trees and everything turns to green. As the bird songs fade away during midsummer the buzzing of insects can be heard. Eristalis pertinax and Marmalade Fly Episyrphus balteatus hoverflies are busy pollinating Meadow Buttercup Ranunculus acris, Hogweed Heracleum sphondylium and Cow Parsley Anthriscus sylvestris. Some of the Higher Plants to look for in the Demesne are included in Table 18.

Table 18 - Castle demesne higher plants.

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

Figure 38 - Early Dog-violet - Viola reichenbachiana.

Some of the birds to look for in the Demesne are included in Table 19.

Table 19 - Castle Demesne birds. Birds

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

4.2 Arra River The Arra River[see Figure 39] 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 [see Figure 16] Minnow Phoxinus phoxinus, Trout Salmo salmo [see Figure 46] and Stone Loach Barbatula barbatula. Water birds that are typically seen include Dipper Cinclus cinclus hibernicus [Figure 31], Grey Wagtail Motacilla cinera, Mallard Anus platyrhynchos and Grey Heron Ardea cinerea [ Figure 29].

Figure 39 - Arra Walk.

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 [ Figure 40] towards Barnagh between the bridge and the level crossing you will find Common Spotted Orchids Dactylorhiza fuchsii and Pyramidal orchids Anacamptis pyramidalis. At Gortboy [ Error! Reference source not found.] the Blackthorn Prunus spinosa and Hawthorn Crataegus monogyna hedges provide cover for Blackcap Sylvia atricapilla, Willow Warbler Phylloscopus trochilus and Chiffchaff Phylloscopus collybita.

Figure 40 - Great Southern Greenway.

Figure 40 above shows a section of the Great Southern Greenway looking westwards from the bridge on the Ardagh Road [R521] towards the level crossing [ Figure 3].

4.4 Desmond Business Park The Desmond Business Park [ Figure 41] 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 [Figure 30] Stonechat Saxicola torquata [ Figure 42] 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 41 - Desmond Business Park.

4.5 Summary 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.

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

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

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

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

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..

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.

Ireland's Rivers [2020] by Mary Kelly-Quinn, Julian Reynolds University College Dublin Press.

Mushrooms, [2003] by Patrick Harding, Collins Gem.

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

Face book Pages: (1) Geoff Hunt, (2) Insects/Invertebrates of Ireland, (3) Birdwatch Ireland Limerick branch.

Web sites: (1) www.biodiversityireland.ie [Maps and Records], (2) www.bsbi.org/maps, (3) www.irishwildflowers.ie, (4) www.naturespot.org.uk [Identification of species], (5) www.ukmoths.org.uk, (6) www.wildflowersofireland.net [Zoe Devlin, Identification by colour].

Appendices See the following pages for Irish bird name translations, County Limerick Townlands named after animals or plants and a selection of posters for some of the species seen during this survey.

A: Irish bird name translations Table 20 - Bird name translations. Birds of prey Irish name Translation Buzzard Clamhán Bald patch Kestrel Pocaire goithe Wind poker Long-eared Owl Ceann cait Cat head Short-eared Owl Ulchabhan reisc White beard of the marsh Passerines

Wood Pigeon Colm coille Pigeon of the wood Swift Gabhlán gaoithe Fork [tail] wind Gabhlán=fork[tail] gainimh=hole [Where Sand Martin Gabhlán gainimh they nest] Swallow Fáinleog Circling Gabhlán=fork[tail] binne=gable [where they House Martin Gabhlán binne 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, Dipper Gabha dubh Blacksmith of the 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 Blackcap Caipín dubh cap black Willow Warbler Ceolaire sailí Singer of the sallies[willow] Goldcrest Ciorbuí Yellow crest Wren Dreoilín small creature or withered 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] Long-tailed Tit Meantán earrfhada To show the muscles [ long tail]

Treecreeper Snag Creep Magpie Snag breac Creep speckled Jay Scréachog screamer Jackdaw Cág old woman Rook Rúcach miser Raven Fiach dubh Black hunter Starling Druid Speckled dress 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 Bullfinch Corcrán coille Scarlet of the wood Reed Bunting Gealóg ghiolcai Bright little thing of the reeds

Figure 42 - Stonechat -Caislín cloch.

Figure 43 - Rathnaneane.

B: Limerick Townlands named after animals or plants Table 21 - Limerick Townlands named after animals or plants. Irish English Translation An Sceachánach Skehanagh Place of the Hawthorns Ard Caithne Ardcanny Height of the Arbutus or Strawberry Tree Ard Draighin Arddrine [Grange] Height of the Blackthorn Ard na bhFiach Ardnaveagh Height of the Raven Ard na bPréachán Ardnapreaghaun Height of the crows Ard na nÉan Ardnanean Height of the birds Ath Dara Adare Ford of Oak Áth na bhFuinseog Ashford Ford of Ash An Bhearna Choill Barnakyle Gap of the Hazel Beitheach Beagh Place of Birch Cill an Iúir Killinure Church of the Yew Cill Doire Kilderry Church of the Oakwood Cnoc an Iolair Mounteagle [Bruree] Hill of the Eagle Gleann na gCreabhar Anglesboro/Anglesborough Glen of the Woodcocks Gort na gCreabhar Gortnagrour [Adare] Field of the Woodcocks Gort na nUbh Gortnanuv Field of eggs Gort na Sceiche Gortnaskagh Field of the Hawthorns Leaca an Mheantáin Jockeyhall [Creeves] Hillside of the Tits Leaca na gCreabhar Lackanagrour [Bruree] Hillside of the Woodcocks Leamhcoill Loughill/Loghill Elm Wood Móin na BhFeadóg Moanaviddoge Bog of the Plovers Móin na nGé Monagea Bog of the Geese Rathnaneane [Newcastle Rath na nÉan Fort of the birds West] Ráth na gCorr Rathnagore [Ardagh] Fort of the Herons

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

Figure 44 - Dually River

Figure 45 - Bugs

Figure 46 - Trout - Salmo salmo

Figure 47 - Great Southern Greenway Railway Signal