County Biodiversity Action Plan 2009-2014 Contae Chorcaí Plean Ghníomhartha Bhithéagsulacht 2009-2014 contents

ADDRESS FROM THE MAYOR 2 ADDRESS FROM THE COUNTY MANAGER/ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS 3

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 5

INTRODUCTION 9 What is biodiversity? 9 Why is biodiversity important? 9 Why a local biodiversity action plan? 11 How the biodiversity action plan was prepared 11 Ratification of the plan 11

COUNTY CORK’S BIODIVERSITY 13 Designated sites for nature conservation 13 Protected species 14 Overview of County Cork’s habitats and species 15 Habitats and species of special conservation significance in County Cork 19

TURNING PLANS INTO ACTION 21 How the plan will be implemented 21 Building biodiversity partnerships 21

AIMS, OBJECTIVES AND ACTIONS 23

EXAMPLES OF BIODIVERSITY PROJECTS & INITIATIVES IN COUNTY CORK 29

GETTING INVOLVED 31

APPENDIX 1 Threats to biodiversity 33

APPENDIX 2 Biodiversity working group members 33

APPENDIX 3 Principal legislation relating to biodiversity 34

APPENDIX 4 Designated sites for nature conservation in 35 County Cork

APPENDIX 5 Annex 1 habitats found within County Cork 38

APPENDIX 6 Protected species found within County Cork 41

APPENDIX 7 Species and habitats of special conservation 52 significance within County Cork

APPENDIX 8 Consultation submissions 61

GLOSSARY 62

PHOTO CREDITS Back Page

COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 1 Address from the Mayor, Cllr. Noel Harrington Address from the Manager, Mr. Martin Riordan

ounty Cork has a unique and distinctive natural essential if we and future generations are to enjoy the diverse he Biodiversity Action Plan aims to provide a As one of the most significant land managers in the County, diversity that has been shaped by its position on the range of habitats and species which occur in our county today. framework for the conservation of nature and wildlife the Biodiversity Action Plan also provides an opportunity for Csouthern coast of the country, its geology dominated The protection of our natural environment is not isolated Twithin the County, which will tie together the policies of Cork County Council to examine its own work practises as by sandstone ridges and limestone valley floors, and the from our social and economic responsibilities, it is essential to national government with the issues that most affect us locally. well as protection of the natural resources within its care. influence of the people who have settled here.This identity is achieving sustainable development and will contribute to the This plan will help us to achieve many of the objectives of the It will help us to integrate planning for the protection of of huge value to our tourism and recreation industries, but it management of climate change. It is within this context that Cork County Development Plan relating to the protection of biodiversity into the Council’s day-to-day operations. is also a source of pride and pleasure for the people of Cork County Council in association with its partners on the our natural resources, which will benefit not only our County Cork. A healthy and functioning environment not County Biodiversity Working Group, and the Heritage Council recreation and tourism industries, but will also benefit the The protection of our natural resources is the responsibility only contributes greatly to our quality of life, but is essential has drafted a County Biodiversity Action Plan. citizens of the County as a whole. Indeed, the Biodiversity of us all, and requires urgent and informed action. to our own health and wellbeing. Action Plan itself will help us shape policies and objectives for Cork County Council will continue to work with all of our This plan has been prepared to address how the wildlife future development plans. partners in the public and private arenas to implement this Our biodiversity includes our marine waters and our coastal resources of the County, including native plants, and plan. By working together, our responsibilities for the estuaries extending from , , , the ecosystems that they combine to produce, will be Through the implementation of this plan, we hope to increase protection of the counties biodiversity can be most efficiently and , to the magnificent rocky managed and protected over the next five years. our knowledge and understanding of the biodiversity of the achieved: Ní neart go cur le cheile. headlands of ; it is our great rivers including the Its implementation will contribute to achieving national and County and to identify our most vulnerable habitats and Bandon, Lee and Blackwater and their many tributaries; it is international targets for the conservation of biodiversity.This is species and the threats facing them. By doing so, Cork County I thank all of those who contributed to the delivery of this the mighty uplands of the north and west of the county, in the context of constantly accelerating rates of species Council in conjunction with its partners on the Biodiversity plan and offer the support of the management team of Cork including the Caha, Derrynasaggart, Boggeragh and Nagle extinction and habitat loss and deterioration globally. Working Group will be better able to focus and prioritise County Council to ensure its effective implementation. Mountain ranges; it includes our woodlands at and future action to ensure the protection of our natural the Gearagh as well as many more smaller woodlands; and it On behalf of Cork County Council, I wish to extend a sincere resources for the coming generations. is our unique marine lake at Lough Hyne. Our biodiversity thank-you to all of those who have contributed to the also includes features of our ordinary landscapes such as our development of this plan through their work on the hedgerows, bogs, wet fields, marshes and rough grasslands. Biodiversity Working Group or through the direct contribution Few other counties of boast such a range and of data or information. I wish the Biodiversity Working Group Acknowledgements diversity of landscapes and habitats. every success with implementation of the plan. Cork County Council wishes to thank the participants on the Cork County Council and the Biodiversity Working Group wish to thank Biodiversity Working Group, and Dr. Lesley Lewis (plan consultant) for Dr Harriet Emerson who facilitated the meetings of the Biodiversity We need to protect the qualities within the landscape which their contributions to the development of this plan. We also wish to Working Group during the process that led to the making of the people are attracted to as well as dependant upon. This is thank all those who participated in the development of the plan through Biodiversity Action Plan. the provision of information or through the making of observations during the consultation process. For further information contact: Sharon Casey, Cork County Council, Millview House, Victoria Cross, Cork County Council wishes to acknowledge the role of the Heritage Cork.Tel: 021 4818000, Email: [email protected] Council in initiating the Biodiversity Action Plan in association with Cork County Council and in particular the funding received from the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government to assist with its development.

2 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 3 executive summary

iodiversity’’ is a shortened version of the which was published in 2002. This important ‘‘B term “biological diversity’’ and simply document outlined the actions needed to means the variety of life on earth. It includes the sustain and enhance Ireland’s biodiversity and whole of the natural world from species also promoted the preparation of Local regarded as common to those critically Biodiversity Action Plans (LBAPs) which, along endangered. As well as the living world, with helping to meet national and international biodiversity also includes habitats, agricultural targets for the conservation of biodiversity, aims biodiversity, genetic diversity and highlights the to address local priorities, provide a framework interconnectedness and interdependence of all for the conservation of biodiversity at the local living things. level and coordinate new and existing local biodiversity initiatives. The 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development was held in Rio The Biodiversity Action Plan is County Cork’s de Janeiro. One landmark international response to the national biodiversity planning agreement that resulted was the Convention on process. Informed by the guidance set out in Biological Diversity (CBD). This recognised for ‘Guidelines for the Production of Local Biodiversity the first time that biological diversity is ‘’a Action Plans’ drafted by the Heritage Council common concern for humankind’ with each and published by the Department of country needing to take responsibility in order Environment, Heritage and Local Government, Field Grasshopper to halt the global loss of biodiversity. The Irish this document takes into account the overall Chorthippus brunneus Government signed the CBD in 1992, and goal, objectives and principles of the National ratified it in 1996. In response to the obligation Biodiversity Action Plan, and translates them contained in Article 6 of the Convention, Ireland into a local County Cork context. prepared its first National Biodiversity Plan

The overall aim of the County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan is:

to conserve and to enhance biodiversity, and to ensure that every person in the county has the opportunity to appreciate and understand its importance in our lives.

COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 4 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 5 Under this overall aim, the County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan outlines a series of actions which are listed under each of six key objectives of the plan:

• To review biodiversity information for County Cork and to prioritise habitats and species for conservation action; • To collect data and use it to inform conservation action and decision making; • To incorporate positive action for biodiversity into local authority actions and policy; • To promote best practice in biodiversity management and protection; • To facilitate the dissemination of biodiversity information;

Bluebell • To raise awareness of County Cork’s biodiversity and en- Hyacinthoides non-scriptus courage people to become involved in its conservation.

ocusing on the most significant elements of County Cork’s Fnatural environment and currently-known pressures and threats upon them, 21 actions are proposed to achieve the plan’s overall objectives and targets.

The implementation of the actions contained in this plan, through cooperation, partnership and close communication, will require input from all parties. One of the key principles of the local Biodiversity Action Plan process is to highlight the fact that everyone has an interest and a stake in their local biodiversity. While this plan highlights and applauds the many organisations, community groups and individuals across the county that are already involved in biodiversity-related projects, the local Biodiversity Action Plan process also aims to encourage new groups, new initiatives and new partnerships to come under the ‘umbrella’ of the County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan and to help drive our local plan forward.

6 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 7 introduction

What is biodiversity?

Biodiversity he word ‘’biodiversity’’ is a shortened Much of the County Cork countryside has been “The variability among version of the term ‘’biological diversity’’ shaped by agriculture and a range of agricultural living organisms from all T sources including, inter and simply means the variety of life on earth. land uses together with varying geological alia,terrestrial, marine Biodiversity is not restricted to rare or influences has created a diversity of agricultural and other aquatic ecosystems and the threatened species but includes the whole of landscapes. ‘High nature value farmland’ is a ecological complexes of the natural world from species regarded as term that has been coined to describe areas which they are part; this includes diversity common to those critically endangered. where the nature interest of the land is within species, between As well as the living world, biodiversity also intimately linked to farming practices and species and of ecosystems” (UN includes the places where plants and animals survives because of it for example, grazing Conference on live (habitats). Importantly, the term also seeks practices on heathlands. Environment and to highlight the interconnectedness and Development (Earth Summit) 1992. interdependence of all living things and also In terms of human survival, agricultural includes the genetic variation between species biodiversity is an important component of which determines their uniqueness. biodiversity as a whole. Agricultural biodiversity has resulted from the interaction between the Notice Nature County Cork boasts an extensive biological environment, genetic resources and the National Action for Biodiversity diversity ‘’biodiversity’’ largely related to the management systems and practices used by Ireland’s first public wide variety of habitats found across the humans. It includes not only crop varieties, awareness campaign county. To the south and west, the county is livestock breeds, fish species and ‘wild’ (non- for biodiversity was announced by the bounded by nutrient-rich sea waters that bring domesticated) resources but also the Department of life to 1094 km of coastline of mainland and components of biodiversity that support our Common Blue Environment, Heritage food production such as soil microbes and Polyomatus icarus & Local Government in islands that ranges from rugged sea cliffs and January 2007. headlands such as and the Old pollinators. www.noticenature.ie Head of to lower lying sandy bays and estuaries such as Ballycotton Bay and Thus biodiversity equates with what we Estuary. Marine and coastal popularly know as wildlife but also encompasses habitats abound with wildlife; marine waters off the wider canvas of habitats where wildlife lives. the south-west are hailed as one of the best It also includes the backdrop of the living world places to observe marine mammals (whales in terms of geology and landscape and and dolphins) in Europe while our rocky, importantly describes the variation between muddy and sandy coastal habitats support individual creatures at the unseen, genetic level. important numbers of waterbirds and other In short, biodiversity is an attempt to represent wild species. Inland, the rivers Bandon, Lee and in a single word the natural world in all its Blackwater and their valleys dominate the kaleidoscopic richness. central part of the county and support a diversity of habitats and species, many rare and important. Habitats of the valleys and Why is Biodiversity Important? floodplains include woodlands, marshes, fens and grasslands while other lowland habitats iodiversity is a primary indicator of the form the agricultural and urban landscapes that Bhealth of our surroundings and is have been shaped by human settlement. To the inextricably linked to the welfare of human north, the county is overlooked by mountain beings. We depend on the ability of nature to ranges including the Ballyhouras, Boggeraghs sustain and replenish itself, to constantly renew and Mullaghareirks which adds to the county’s and exchange. Biodiversity gives us many of the biodiversity with habitats such as blanket bog, essentials of life - oxygen, water, food, clothing heath and upland grasslands and the unique and health. It is fundamental to human existence species that they support. and is essential to human survival.

8 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 9 Biodiversity Why a local Biodiversity Action Plan?

Agricultural • Provides the food we eat through both We are perhaps less aware of the importance Countdown 2010 t the 1992 Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, non-governmental organisations and Biodiversity Global Action for the provision of crop plants and their biodiversity has to our everyday wellbeing. Biodiversity Athe Irish Government was one of almost representatives from local interest groups (See Encompasses the insect pollinators and other food items In our recreational time many of us are drawn 150 countries that signed the Convention on Appendix 2). This group reviewed the data such as meat and fish. to natural landscapes like coasts and hills but Nearly all countries of Biological Diversity. This landmark international collected by the consultant as well as the variety and variability the world came of animals, plants • Purifies our air, decomposes our wastes probably take for granted the immense spiritual together for the World agreement recognised for the first time that consultation submissions. Through a number of and micro-organisms and forms part of important nutrient wellbeing they bring. Most of us will interact Summit on Sustainable biological diversity is ‘’a common concern for facilitated meetings the Biodiversity Working which are necessary Development in 2002 to sustain key cycles. with biodiversity on a daily basis whether it is a and promised to humankind’ with each country needing to take Group developed and agreed the aim, objectives functions of the • Is a source of raw materials such as fuel walk in the park or countryside, feeding our ‘achieve by 2010 a responsibility in order to halt the global loss of and actions recorded in this plan. significant reduction in agro-ecosystems and building materials. garden birds or admiring a tree or flowering the current rate of loss and plant species, through conserving its structure and • Holds our water supplies in rivers, lakes plant. Biodiversity enriches our quality of life, of biological diversity. and enhancing biodiversity within their own The Biodiversity Action Plan was prepared with processes for, and in and other waterways. inspires, entertains and motivates us. jurisdiction. In response, Ireland produced a regard to the National Biodiversity Plan, the support of, food Countdown 2010 is a production and food • Provides important moderation of powerful network of National Biodiversity Plan in 2002, a document County Cork Heritage Plan and the County security (Food and droughts, floods, temperature extremes But the world is losing biodiversity at an ever- active partners working setting out strategies for the conservation and Development Plan 2003. The development of Agriculture together towards the and the forces of wind. increasing rate and largely from human actions. 2010 biodiversity enhancement of Ireland’s biodiversity through a the Biodiversity Action Plan is an action of the Organisation of the • Provides a wealth of resources to the Many species and habitats are in decline and in target. Each partner series of actions. In particular, the national plan County Heritage Plan. United Nations, commits additional 1997). tourism industry which was worth an some cases their future is endangered. efforts to tackle the highlights the key role that Local Authorities can estimated 5.9 billion euros in 2006. Some species have already become extinct and causes of biodiversity have in promoting biodiversity conservation and Ratification of the plan • Provides the raw materials for traditional many are likely to do so within our lifetimes. loss. The secretariat - coordinating biodiversity issues at a local level. hosted by the World and modern medicines. On a world scale the rate of loss is now Conservation Union The national plan also promotes the recognised to be a cause for serious concern, (IUCN) - facilitates preparation of Local Biodiversity Action Plans ollowing a public consultation process that and encourages (LBAPs) which, along with helping to meet Fwas held in August and September, the requiring concerted international action to action, promotes the iodiversity is also a source of material, social, prevent continued loss of biodiversity. importance of the 2010 national and international targets for the County Biodiversity Action Plan was ratified by biodiversity target and Cork County Council in December of 2008. Bintellectual and spiritual wealth. Its limitless assesses progress conservation of biodiversity, aims to address value providing outdoor classrooms and We need to recognise that our lives would be towards 2010. local priorities, provide a framework for the subjects that satisfy enquiring young minds. poorer for the loss of biodiversity in every conservation of biodiversity at the local level conceivable way and we all have a part to play and coordinate new and existing local in safeguarding it. So action needs to be biodiversity initiatives. taken at every level, from global to Hedgehog national to local. How the County Cork Biodiversity Erinaceus europaeus Action Plan was prepared

ork County Council and the Heritage Council commissioned a consultant C Wild Garlic-Ramsons ecologist to undertake a body of work in the Allium ursinum preparation of the plan which included consultation, information review and preparation of a draft report. This work was undertaken in accordance with guidelines developed by the Heritage Council and published by the Department of Environment, Heritage and Local Government.

The Biodiversity Working Group established by Cork County Council for the preparation of the County Heritage Plan was reconvened. The group includes representatives from local government, government departments and agencies, academic institutions, environmental

10 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 11 county cork’s biodiversity

Our principal his section provides an overview of the Designated sites for nature conservation found designated areas: Twealth of biodiversity found within County across County Cork are listed in Appendix 4. - Natural Heritage Areas Cork. Habitats and species of special Thirty sites across the county have been (NHA): a national conservation importance are found across the designated as Special Areas of Conservation designation given legal status by the Wildlife county, many being afforded legal protection as (SACs) in accordance with the EU Habitats Amendment (2000) Act. described below. However, the Convention on Directive due to the presence of internationally - Special Areas of Biological Biodiversity highlights the need to important habitats or species within the site Conservation (SAC): protect and enhance biodiversity across the boundary (habitats and species being listed within areas considered of international wider countryside, not just in protected areas, Annex I and II of the directive respectively). importance whose legal and hence this report highlights the major These are prime examples of habitats or wildlife basis is the EU Habitats habitats found across County Cork, with which conservation areas and are considered Directive (92/43/EEC), transposed into Irish law we all interact on a day-to-day basis. internationally and nationally important. Examples through the European in County Cork include the River Blackwater, Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations, 1997. Glengarriff Woods and Harbour, the Gearagh and Roaringwater Bay. Habitats listed under - Special Protection Designated sites for Nature Areas (SPA): sites of Annex I of the Directive and that occur within international Conservation County Cork’s SAC’s are shown in Appendix 5. conservation importance for birds whose legal basis is the number of sites within County Cork have Ten sites across the county are designated as EU Birds Directive Abeen identified as important for biodiversity Special Protection Areas (SPAs) under the EU (79/409/EEC). and have been designated for protection under Birds Directive. These sites are internationally European and/or national legislation. important for the species, range of species, and/or numbers of birds using them. Examples include The government agency responsible for the Cork Harbour, Ballymacoda Bay and Kilcolman conservation of habitats and species in Ireland is Bog. A further eight sites are proposed for the National Parks and Wildlife Service, part of designation as SPAs. the Department of the Environment, Heritage and Local Government. Their main focus is the The national designation for wildlife is the protection of rare or sensitive sites and species Natural Heritage Area (NHA). County Cork has through implementation of national and/or eight formally designated NHAs and a further international law. However, it is the responsibility 104 proposed NHA’s covering a wide variety of of all stakeholders to ensure that important sites habitats including bogs, lakes, river valleys and and species are protected. woodlands.

Lough Hyne Located 3 miles west of in West Cork, Lough Hyne was designated as Europe’s first Marine Nature Reserve in 1981 in recognition of, and in order to protect, the rich biodiversity that occurs within this semi-enclosed sea lough.The Lough supports many different marine habitats (e.g. cliffs, beaches, boulders and saltmarshes) and Ferns on a Tree, Glengarriff has varying environmental conditions leading to diverse communities of flora and fauna that have been the subject of scientific research by a range of institutions for over 100 years.

12 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 13 Overview of County Cork’s Habitats and Species

Protected Species Freshwater Habitats Grassland Habitats Our principal ounty Cork supports a diverse range of Many species have a particular local significance. The Irish Natural reshwater habitats include rivers, such as the Grassland habitats cover a large proportion of legislation covering native species associated with terrestrial, For example, these may be species that we Forestry Foundation three main large rivers that flow from west to the Cork countryside and are largely protected species are: C (INFF) has established F freshwater, coastal and marine habitats. Indeed, observe more readily in County Cork (e.g. the Manch Project at east across the county (Blackwater, Lee and agricultural and improved in nature. Wildlife Act, 1976 and few other Irish counties can boast such a wealth Leisler’s Bat (Nyctalus leisler)) than in other Manch Estate Bandon) to small streams and drainage ditches Interspersed with hedgerows and pockets of Wildlife Amendment near . (2000) Act, the EU and diversity of native wildlife. parts of the country, or for that matter in The project is designed to lakes and ponds that are dotted across the woodland and scrub, these areas have Habitats Directive and Europe. Or these may be species for which to demonstrate landscape. It is not only the waterbodies important biodiversity value for a range of the EU Birds Directive. sustainable Protected species are those which are afforded County Cork is especially important in establishment and themselves, but the riverside or streamside ‘farmland’ species including birds, mammals and legal protection.Those that occur within County maintaining the population at regional or even management of (‘riparian’) habitats that are important in invertebrates. ‘Unimproved’ or ‘semi-improved’ broadleaved woodland Cork are listed in Appendix 6 and include national level. Examples here include the and involves extending supporting many different communities of plants grasslands are less common and can be mammals, reptiles, amphibians, crustaceans, particularly rare plant Spotted Rock-rose the original semi-native and animals. Important features include riffles categorised on the basis of soil type (acidic, , molluscs, fish, birds and plants. Appendix (Tuberaria guttata) which is found in a few woodland, woodland and pools within a river or stream, important for neutral, calcareous) and drainage status (dry or restoration, field trial 6 also highlights bird species occurring on lists of locations in West Cork and the Barn Owl plots, riparian trial plots invertebrates and fish, as well as bankside wet). Examples include acid grasslands that ‘species of conservation concern’ and species (Tyto alba), which has undergone a serious and hedgerow planting features such as earth banks, stands of reed, typically form upland grazing habitats to and management listed in Red Data Books (species considered decline across the country but for which amongst other features. grasslands and wet woodlands which support an lowland wet grasslands subject to periodic rare or threatened). County Cork remains a stronghold. The Education Centre array of flora and fauna including birds, flooding and supporting a range of moisture- runs a series of courses for both children and amphibians, insects and mammals. loving plants. Important examples in County adults and regular open Cork include unimproved Molinia caerulea days allow the public to As well as their intrinsic value, rivers and streams grassland (Purple Moor Grass) which forms explore up to 15 km of woodland paths. act as wildlife corridors linking different wildlife mosaics with blanket bog across the Boggeragh features and providing routes of passage and Nagle Mountains and supports local between them. Waterways are a significant populations of the rare Marsh Fritillary element of our landscape and vital to our every (Euphydryas aurinia). Rare in County Cork, day lives. For example, the is not only calcareous grassland can support a high an important natural habitat but also provides diversity of grass and herb species together significant resources in terms of recreation, with associated fauna including insects, while fisheries, tourism and water supply, amongst species-rich pastures and meadows such as others. Many species are freshwater dependent traditional flower-rich hay meadows are and watercourses of County Cork are important becoming increasingly rare. for many rare and protected freshwater species including the Freshwater Pearl Mussel (Margaritifera margaritifera) and White-clawed Crayfish (Austropotamobius pallipes).

Common Seals Phoca vitulina

Spotlight on Barn Owls Barn Owl Tyto alba Barn Owl (Tyto alba) populations have seriously declined in recent times.The reasons for the decline are not fully understood, but are most likely attributed to the loss of suitable habitat due to agricultural intensification, the loss of suitable nesting sites and the increased use of harmful second generation anti-coagulant rodenticides.

BirdWatch Ireland runs the Barn Owl Project funded by the Heritage Council, National Parks & Wildlife Service and the Department of Agriculture & Food.

This project has involved updating an earlier register of nest sites, an extensive nest box scheme and determining appropriate conservation management strategies.

14 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 15 Heathlands Coastal habitats

REPS (Rural Heathlands are open and uncultivated areas of Sedge (Trichophorum cespitosus), Purple Moor- FEPS (Forest biodiversity rich and one of our most valuable Cork’s coastline is very varied largely as a result Environment Protection land that are characterised by low growing grass (Molinia caerulea), Bog Cottons Environment Protection eco-systems. of geological processes. This variation Scheme) is designed to Scheme) is a scheme provide incentives for herbs and shrubs such as heathers. Heath can (Eriophorum species), Bog Asphodel that encourages farmers contributes to an outstanding assemblage of farmers to carry be found in upland and lowland areas, inland (Narthecium ossifragum) and a good diversity of participating in REPS to County Cork boasts superb examples and coastal habitats which make up one of the out their activities in plant high nature value environmentally-friendly and coastal; this habitat is well represented in bryophytes (liverworts and mosses) and forestry on their farms national treasures of woodland: Glengarriff most important elements of the county's ways. It plays a County Cork on the slopes of hills and lichens. Examples in County Cork include to increase biodiversity Woods in West Cork contains prime examples wildlife resource. significant role within the farm in biodiversity mountains with good examples found in the Derryclogher Bog on the Cork/Kerry Border landscape. of old woodland whereas the Gearagh, management and Ballyhoura and . Wet heath and the upland blanket bogs of the Ballyhoura, near , is recognised as the best Our coastal habitats including that of mainland improvement across the often occurs in association with blanket bog Caha and . Bog habitats example of alluvial forest (oak-alder swamp) and islands, include impressive rocky sea cliffs farmed lands of Co Cork. Uptake of and features Cross-leaved Heath (Erica tetralix). are often interspersed with other habitats that remains in Western Europe. Both of these and coastal heaths such as those found along REPS3 Biodiversity Dry heath is dominated by Ling Heather including rocky outcrops and pools which add examples are national nature reserves the coastline from Three Castle to Mizen Head options by Cork farmers included 1575 (Calluna vulgaris), Bell Heather (Erica cinerea) to the diversity of fauna and flora found. amongst other designations in recognition of which supports a range of breeding seabirds commitments to create and Western Gorse (Ulex gallii) with occasional Although bogs can be quite hostile for animals, their immense biodiversity value. Fulmar (e.g. Fulmarus glacialis) and the Annex I new habitats covering 1275 hectares, 1103 Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus). Several heath several species thrive in these isolated areas species Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax). new hedgerow plantings habitat types occur within County Cork for including the native Irish Hare (Lepus timidus). Coillte manages over Hedgerows and scrub can be viewed as small covering 500 km and which Ireland has an international conservation 15% of it forest estate patches of woodland and are an important Coastal lagoons, bodies of brackish water, such the planting of 45,000 for biodiversity and broadleaved trees. responsibility due to their restricted European Fens differ from bogs in that they receive water nature conservation. feature in the Irish agricultural landscape, as Kilkeran Lake in West Cork support and global distribution (See Appendix 5). Within County Cork, 29 from groundwater or surface water, are woodlands have been providing ideal habitat for many species as well specialised and often rare invertebrate species. generally found in lowland areas and are often identified as Biodiversity as ‘wildlife corridors’ that provide safe passage Sand dune systems such as Clonakilty and The protected plant Recurved Sandwort close to areas of open water. Fens support a Areas covering an area from one place to another. Woodlands and , support a unique flora adapted to of 5180 hectares. (Minuartia recurva) is only known from mosaic of different habitats ranging from open Management plans hedgerows are important habitats for many cope with both dry conditions and salt-laden heathlands in the Caha Mountains and one water, reed beds to wet woodland, the diversity have been developed bat species; while mature trees may provide winds, from a strandline, colonised by Frosted for these areas other place in Ireland; heaths are also of habitats contributing to the rich diversity by ecologists. safe roost sites it is known that bats follow Orache (Atriplex laciniata), Sea Sandwort important habitats for several bird species of found including plants, birds, mammals, linear feature such as hedgerows when (Honkenya peploides) and Sea Rocket (Cakile conservation concern such as Snipe (Gallinago amphibians and insects. Indeed fens are one of foraging at night. maritima) to the more familiar Marram grass gallinago), Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus the most biodiversity-rich habitats there is and (Ammophila arenaria) through to longer- scoticus) and Merlin (Falco columbarius) and many rare species are found in association with established ‘fixed’ dunes being vegetated by many invertebrates such as the declining Small this habitat. Prime examples in County Cork grasses, small herbs and orchids. Heath Butterfly (Coenonympha pamphilus). include Ballyvergan Marsh near Youghal and Garrylucas Marsh in Garrettstown.

Peatlands Woodland,Trees and Hedgerow Habitats In recognition of the Peatlands are a unique habitat formed from the immense biodiversity remains of dead plants having accumulated in Woodlands can be divided into semi-natural value of Ireland’s native woodlands, the Native waterlogged layers for thousands of years and woodlands and non-native woodland (e.g. Woodland Scheme resulting in layers of acidic peat which is plantation forestry). ‘Ancient’ woodlands, which administered by the Forest Service, provides characterised by unique flora including Peat have existed since medieval times, are now support to landowners mosses (Sphagnum species). Ireland is famous very rare in Ireland. Pockets of this habitat, to protect and enhance existing native for its extensive covering of peatlands which when they occur, are immensely important due woodlands and to comprise blanket bogs, raised bogs and fens to their uniqueness, their ability to support rare establish new ones. although a large proportion of their original woodland flora and fauna and because they Various elements are involved from the extent has been damaged or destroyed. cannot be re-created. planting of new native While raised bogs are largely confined to the woodland, to coppicing and provision of midlands, County Cork does have fine Woodlands support a diverse flora and fauna; protective fencing examples of blanket bogs and fens. from the trees and shrub communities around existing woodlands while also themselves to the species that live upon them enabling compatible Blanket Bogs form a carpet of peat over an (epiphytes) to the ground flora, breeding birds, wood production. area. Vegetation is often characterised by Deer mammals and insects, woodlands are truly

Royal Fern Osmunda regalis

16 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 17 Intertidal Habitats

From the top of the shoreline to the low water based on their ability to cope with the Marine County Cork offers some of the best land-based whale-watching in Europe and species mark, intertidal habitats mark the fascinating inundation of seawater. Lower levels are Station in Roaringwater Bay amongst other such as Bottlenose Dolphin (Tursiops truncatus), Harbour Porpoise (Phocaena transition from land to sea. Although this zone dominated by species such as Glassworts projects, has run a phocaena), Common Dolphin (Delphinus delphis), Risso’s Dolphin (Grampus is often no more than a few metres in vertical (Salicornia species) whereas at higher levels Sea rocky shore monitoring griseus), Fin Whale (Balaenoptera physalus), Humpback Whale (Megaptera programme since 1975 height, the richness in life can surpass many Thrift (Armeria maritima), Sea Aster (Aster with 69 sites surveyed novaeangliae) and Minke Whale (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) can be observed other habitats. tropolium) and Lax-flowered Sea-lavender annually on Sherkin from land-based observation posts such as Galley Head and the Old Head Island and the islands of (Limonium humile) can form attractive bands of Roaringwater Bay and of Kinsale. We also know that these large and spectacular marine County Cork has long stretches of rocky flowering plants on the upper shore as seen in Dunmanus Bay. Since mammals such as Fin Whales are not merely passing by on migration Crayfish shorelines, often inhospitable for humans but around Rossmore Peninsula in Cork Harbour 1995 the programme has been extended to but may spend up to nine months in our waters; therefore truly Palinarus elephas where specially adapted plant and animal and at Ballymacoda Bay. include the coastline part of the county biodiversity resource. There may now also communities thrive. These vary from exposed from Bay to Cork be a resident population of Bottlenose Dolphins in Cork Harbour, increasing the sites with mid-shores dominated by Mussels The Open Sea number of sites to 144. Harbour. Further research is needed to determine whether (Mytilus edulis) and barnacle species (e.g. This long-time study is these are seasonal or year-round residents, a proven an outstanding Semibalanus balanoides) to sheltered shores And finally to the open sea, where (unless lucky achievement, not only resident population will be of national and with dense growths of seaweeds and diverse enough to dive), it is hard to appreciate the for its longevity but international importance. faunal communities comprising worms, snails, spectacularly rich biodiversity beneath the because of the huge long-term dataset that crabs, anemones and crustaceans. waters’ surface. has been acquired, the results of importance Habitats and Species of Special not only for SW Ireland Our sandy beaches are an important resource There is very considerable variation within sub- but for the entire Conservation Significance in in terms of recreation but many of us may not tidal communities. The upper portion of the Irish coastline. realise the animal communities beneath our 'sub-littoral' zone frequently holds dense stands www.sherkinmarine.ie County Cork feet, burrowed into the sand when the tide is of kelp, these ‘kelp forests’ providing important out. Pressing our feet into wet sand may reveal habitats for fish, birds and mammals. vital part of the biodiversity action plan tiny holes formed by burrowing amphipod Aprocess is the identification of habitats and crustaceans or worms; other worms leave Deeper areas are dominated by animals rather species of special conservation significance within visible signs such as casts or sand tubes on the than by algae, with this habitat being particularly the county and particularly those for which there is a surface but this environment does not really interesting in sheltered coastal areas, such as particular conservation priority. come alive until the tide has lapped in again. Lough Hyne where gullies, submarine cliffs and Similarly, expanses of sand and mud flats of ledges support diverse assemblages of sponges, In this first County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan we estuaries may look like barren habitats at low corals and anemones. have developed a set of criteria which have been tide but are far from it. Burrowed into the mud used to identify species and habitats of special can be huge densities of bivalve molluscs and As well as the diversity of fish and shellfish conservation significance in a County Cork worms such as the Ragworm (Hedistediversi- species that occur in our inshore waters and context. These criteria were applied to all color); much sought after by fishermen but of provide the basis of inshore fisheries, our open habitats and species represented in the county great importance as prey items for wading birds waters are also home to some of the most for which there is readily available information. and waterfowl that migrate to these Irish impressive animals on the planet. We must acknowledge however that some habitats during winter to make the most of the bias is inevitable due to varying levels of abundant food supply. These are special places Grey seals (Halichoerus grypus) and common knowledge about different species or habitat for waterbirds and Cork’s prime examples, Seals (Phoca vitulina) are two protected marine groups. Therefore the species and habitats Cork Harbour, Ballymacoda Bay, mammals that depend on the open sea but also identified constitute a preliminary list and will be Courtmacsherry Estuary and Clonakilty Bay are require safe rocky land bases to haul out and subject to review and updates during the lifetime recognised to be of international importance. breed. Rocky islets in Glengarriff Harbour of the plan as directed by a ‘Priorities Review support the largest colony of Commom Seals in Group’ to be established as an action of this plan. Saltmarshes form the band of vegetation the south-west of Ireland while Roaringwater between land and sea and are characterised by Bay is locally and nationally important for Grey The current lists of species and habitats of special a unique set of plants that distribute themselves Seals. conservation significance within County Cork are shown in Appendix 7 as are the criteria used for selecting them.

18 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 19 turning plans into action

How the Plan will be implemented

ost actions of this plan will require this document, through cooperation, Mfinancial as well as administrative and partnership and close communication, will professional support. require input from all parties.

Cork Co. Council is the leading partner in the It is essential to the success of the LBAP process implementation of the County Biodiversity Plan that partnerships are forged between national and has agreed to support the delivery of the and local government, government agencies, plan in partnership with others over the next business, educational institutes, the voluntary five years as resources permit. The Council will sector and many more. ‘Biodiversity also support the delivery of the plan through partnerships’ have already been formed (see the work of its Heritage Officer and other staff. box below) and as such the organisations The Council and the Biodiversity Working involved have shown their willingness to engage Group will welcome area based or locally in the LBAP process and to become involved as based initiatives which will help to achieve the partners for specific actions. objectives of the plan. We applaud the many organisations, community groups and individuals across the county that Building Biodiversity Partnerships are already involved in biodiversity-related projects, but we welcome new groups, new Blue Tit The Local Biodiversity Action Plan process initiatives and new partnerships to come under Parus caeruleus highlights the fact that everyone has an interest the ‘umbrella’ of the County Cork LBAP and to and a stake in their local biodiversity. help drive our local plan forward. The implementation of the actions contained in

Biodiversity Partners – Abbreviations and Names used in the text: CCC Cork County Council CCBG Cork County Bat Group CMRC Coastal & Marine Resources Centre, University College Cork CNT County Nature Trust Coillte SECAD South and East Cork Area Development FS Forest Service FWP Fota Wildlife Park INFF Irish Natural Forestry Foundation NPWS National Parks and Wildlife Service SWRFB South Western Regional Fisheries Board Teagasc WCL West Cork Leader

20 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 21 aims, objectives and actions

Aim of the County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan

Compass Jellyfish Chrysaora hysocella To conserve and enhance biodiversity, and to ensure that every person in the county has the opportunity to appreciate and understand its importance in our lives.

number of projects relating to biological The following pages outline the actions of the Adiversity have already been initiated in the County Cork Biodiversity Action Plan. County under the auspices of the County Actions are listed under each of six key Heritage Plan (2005-2010). These include the objectives of the plan. Lead partners and development of a dataset of biological potential partners have been identified for each information for the County, the initiation of the of the actions. However, it is likely that additional development of a digital habitat map and partners will be sought for the support of many ecological dataset for the county and the or all of these actions as appropriate at the time delivery of a seminar on the management of of implementation. It is hoped that the Heritage wildlife. All biodiversity actions of the County Council and the DoEHLG will provide financial Heritage Plan have been included or support for the implementation of many of superceded by the actions below. these actions.

To Review Biodiversity Information For County Cork And To objective 1 Prioritise Habitats and Species For Conservation Action.

Actions are proposed here that address the need to review biodiversity data for County Cork, prioritise species and habitats for conservation action and update these priorities as more information becomes available.

No. Actions Lead Potential Partner Partners

1.1 Complete the review of biological data commenced as Cork County from Biodiversity part of the process of developing the biodiversity plan for Council Working Group the county. from

1.2 Establish a ‘priorities review group’ to develop and agree a Cork County Biodiversity set of criteria for prioritising habitats and species for future Council Working Group action; and identify, review and prioritise habitats and species for conservation action.

1.3 Carry out analysis and review of the information Cork County from Biodiversity generated by the county digital ecological dataset. Council Working Group

22 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 23 objective 2 To Collect Data And Use It To Inform Conservation Action And Decision Making. objective 5 To Facilitate The Dissemination Of Biodiversity Information.

We have identified the need to collect and collate information on County Cork’s biodiversity so that gaps The sharing of biodiversity information is a key component of engaging people and raising awareness of our in knowledge can be identified and information gathered can be used to inform decision-making processes. local biodiversity. Actions aimed at facilitating information dissemination are proposed here:

No. Actions Lead Potential No. Actions Lead Potential Partner Partners Partner Partners

2.1 Continue the development of the county habitat map and GIS Cork County NPWS, Biodiversity 5.1 Ensure that all Environmental Impact Statements (EIS) are Cork County Council based ecological dataset incorporating information on habitats Council Working Group lodged in the County Library. and species. 5.2 Continue to update and maintain the Biodiversity Page of the Cork County Council from Biodiversity 2.2 Produce and implement four local action plans for habitats or from Biodiversity from Biodiversity Working County Heritage Website. Working Group species prioritised for conservation action under Action 1.2 Working Group Group within the lifetime of the Biodiversity Action Plan. 5.3 Assess feasibility of developing an on-line database for county Cork County Council from Biodiversity biodiversity metadata. Working Group

objective 3 To Incorporate Positive Action For Biodiversity Into Local Authority Actions And Policy. To Raise Awareness Of County Cork’s Biodiversity And Encourage objective 6 People To Become Involved In Its Conservation. The proposed actions form part of Cork County Council’s commitment to the local Biodiversity Action Plan process and its overall aims. Raising awareness is key to more people understanding, appreciating and conserving biodiversity. The Biodiversity No. Actions Lead Potential Action Plan process also acknowledges that we all have a part to play in protecting our local biodiversity for the Partner Partners future. Actions relating to raising awareness amongst as many people as possible are proposed here:

3.1 Develop and provide training and guidance documentation for Cork County Council Fisheries Boards, CCBG, No. Actions Lead Potential Partner Partners local authority staff around environmentally sensitive INFF, NPWS,Teagasc. management practises including the management of hedgerows and old trees, carrying out of works in or near watercourses, 6.1 Carry out feasibility study for development of a nature NPWS Cork County Council, the control of invasive species, the protection of bat roosts and education centre and seek to implement the CNT SECAD. the use of herbicides and pesticides. recommendations of this.

3.2 Develop and implement policy in relation to the Councils Cork County Council 6.2 Promote the development of Local Biodiversity Plans/Audits Cork County Council from Biodiversity own management of habitats, species and areas of by community groups and other local organisations to Working Group biodiversity value. encourage public participation in the enhancement of local wildlife areas. 3.3 Develop and provide training for planning staff in relation to Cork County Council biodiversity, in particular the use of the new ecological dataset 6.3 Hold talks and other biodiversity awareness raising events. from Biodiversity and planning for biodiversity. Working Group

3.4 Carry out an audit of the biodiversity value of Local Authority Cork County Council 6.4 Develop and support initiatives to raise awareness of CMRC from Biodiversity managed land. marine biodiversity. Working Group

3.5 Provide training and information to Local Authority members Cork County Council 6.5 Explore the feasibility of appointing pilot wildlife CNT SCAD,WCL about biodiversity. outreach officers.

6.6 Carry out an audit of nature education resources in County Cork County Council from Biodiversity Cork and promote these in schools and to other interest Working Group objective 4 To Promote Best Practice In Biodiversity Management And Protection. groups.

There is a need to encourage the use of the highest possible standards in the protection and management of our biodiversity.Actions under this objective address this issue.

No. Actions Lead Potential Partner Partners

4.1 Produce and disseminate information regarding best practice Cork County Council NPWS, SWRFB, (e.g. in relation to watercourse management; the control of Teagasc. invasive species etc).

4.2 Support demonstration projects for positive land Coillte, CNT, NPWS, from Biodiversity management to enhance biodiversity; e.g. high nature value Teagasc Working Group, CNT farmland and biodiversity.

24 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 25 Monitoring and Review The Biodiversity Action Plan sets out a series of A second National Biodiversity Action Plan is in the ambitious and challenging actions to be process of been prepared, therefore future undertaken across the county over a five-year monitoring and review of the County Cork period. It is essential to the success of the plan that Biodiversity Action Plan will also consider its progress and outputs are monitored and recommendations made in this National document. evaluated. We must also be aware that the publication of the County Cork plan marks the Some actions will involve the commissioning of start of the LBAP process not the completion of it. contract work. Where appropriate, a Steering Group will be established to advise on the content To this end, the Biodiversity Working Group has of contract programmes and to oversee their agreed to meet at regular intervals to monitor and delivery. Contracted consultancy work that relates review the progress of the plan. In addition, a to Biodiversity Action Plan actions will also be priorities review group will be established that will subject to peer review as part of the contract and meet on a regular basis to discuss and review as a mechanism of quality control. biodiversity priorities for the county. Fly Agaric Amanita muscaria

The following indicators will be used as part of the ongoing monitoring of this plan. They will also contribute to mid-term and final evaluations. Overall Administration of Plan Local Authority Action and Policy 1. Number of actions implemented 9. Number of training events held. a. Funding sourced for 10. Number and percentage of staff and implementation of the Plan members in attendance. b. From the Local Authority 11. Number of good practise guidance c. From other sources. notes produced. 2. Number of meetings of Biodiversity Working Group held. Promoting Best Practise 3. Number of partners engaged in support of plan. 12. Number of guidance notes produced. 13. Number of demonstration projects Prioritising Habitats and Species underway. 4. Number of meetings of Priorities Review Group held. Raising Awareness 5. Completion and publication of three review 14. Number of awareness raising events held. reports at beginning, middle and end of 15. Number of community Biodiversity planning period. Plans completed.

Collecting Information 6. Area of county habitats mapped to level II and level III of the Fossitt classification system. 7. Number of other ecological datasets incorporated into dataset. 8. Completion of four local habitat/species action plans.

26 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 27 examples of biodiversity projects & initiatives in county cork

Spider Coleotes spp Glengarriff Woods Nature Reserve is owned The Neighbourwood Scheme is funded and by the State and managed by the National Parks administered by the Forest Service & Wildlife Service (NPWS) for nature (Department of Agriculture and Food) and conservation and amenity purposes. Visitors to offers support to local authorities, community the reserve can enjoy amenity walks through groups, environmental NGOs and private one of the best examples of old oak woodland woodland owners to work in partnership to in Ireland which is also home to some of our develop woodland amenities in or around most rare and protected species such as Lesser towns, cities or villages. Cork County Council Horseshoe Bats. NPWS supported by the and local community groups are currently Native Woodland scheme continue to remove involved in the following schemes: Poulgorm areas of the introduced species Rhododendron Wood (Glengarriff), Regional Park, ponticum from the woodland while work also Rochestown and Coolagown. continues in cooperation with Coillte to convert areas of conifer woodland to native The International Schools Godwit Project was broadleaved woodland. devised and developed by (Cork) local wildlife expert Jim Wilson and Scoil Iosaef Naofa Examples of biodiversity related () teacher Willie McSweeney. It has projects at University College Cork involved the linking of the Cobh school and (Department of Zoology, Ecology & Plant students with a school in the north of Iceland Science, UCC). (Siglufjör_ur) who share information on sightings of migratory Godwits close to their • The ecology of the European respective schools. These two classes were Hedgehog - PhD research. picked not only because they have two very • Beaufort Research Study - ‘Ecosystem enthusiastic teachers there but because both approach to fisheries management'. school were right in the middle of the breeding • PLANFORBIO - Planning and and wintering areas of the godwits The classes management tools for biodiversity in a receive sighting information from birdwatchers range of Irish forests. of colour ringed Black-tailed Godwits seen in • Food web dynamics and ecosystem and around Cork Harbour and Siglufjör_ur. functioning in the Gearagh woodland. They then send the information to two of the • Cork Harbour Bird Atlas - study organisers, who send them the bird’s http://corkharbourbirds.ucc.ie/ contains migration life history showing where and when information on 25 years of bird counts the godwits were caught and colour ringed and undertaken by volunteers across Cork where and when the birds were seen after that. Harbour; created by the Coastal and When the class gets godwit migration life Marine Resources Centre of UCC. histories each pupil "adopts" a bird and using the life history information draws lines on a map of ZEPS are linked to the National Biodiversity Europe showing where it has been since it was Data Centre and contribute to many other colour ringed. The map is then put up on the national Biodiversity databases. wall of the class. A red dot is also placed on a

28 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 29 big map of Iceland showing where the Cork The Cork County Bat Group is active across godwits were ringed and where the Siglufjör_ur the county and involved in a range of national godwits spend the winter.The classes have over and local surveys including: getting involved 50 life histories of godwits seen in Cork Community Groups could: Harbour or ringed in Siglufjör_ur and they hope • The Irish Bat Distribution Project Individuals could: to get even more. It is hoped that by being 2007 – 2010. involved in the project in a practical way they • All-Ireland Daubenton’s bat waterways • Plant native trees and plants. See e.g. • Undertake a local biodiversity audit - will learn to value their environment through survey. www.irishseedsavers.ie record species and habitats within your understanding and fun! For more information • Bridge survey of the Lee catchment area. • Use natural methods of pest and weed local area contact Jim Wilson at [email protected] control as opposed to chemicals. • Recording your wildlife data online: e.g. the See: www.corkcountybatgroup.ie • Erect bird and bat boxes in suitable places. Heritage Council’s Biodiversity Watch Birdwatchers across County Cork are currently • Put up a bird table and enjoy watching Programme www.biology.ie involved in survey work for the Bird Atlas 2007 The County Nature Trust is a voluntary what comes to visit. • Put up bird and bat boxes in your - 2011 project. This project aims to map Ireland organisation dedicated to nature conservation • Make a log pile in a secluded corner – this local area. and Britain’s birds during the winter and in the southern counties via the acquisition may attract hedgehogs, ladybirds and other • Clean rubbish out of that local stream. breeding seasons. The project is a partnership and/or managing of reserves for wildlife and by wildlife. • Reduce the use of chemical herbicides in between BirdWatch Ireland, the British Trust for promoting awareness of wildlife issues through • Create a wildflower patch. your local area. Ornithology and the Scottish Ornithologists' communication, research, education and • Create a pond Club. The results will allow us to assess changes training. Examples of their work include • Plant a few native species to help the in bird distributions since previous breeding and involvement in the development of wildlife e.g. hawthorn to provide berries winter atlases. See: www.birdwatchireland.ie management plans for Ballyannan Wood, near for birds. and Commoge Marsh near Kinsale. (http://countynaturetrust.tripod.com).

Cuskinny Marsh Nature Reserve near Cobh, is a privately owned mixture of lake, woodland, grassland and wetland habitats that are Schools could: Landowners could: managed by BirdWatch Ireland. This is an area of local biodiversity importance and is also an • Improve wildlife habitats in your school • Seek advice and guidance documents on important local amenity and educational venue. grounds. biodiversity-friendly land management • Record habitats and species within your practises such as the control of invasive Leisler’s Bat school grounds. species, hedgerow management and Nyctalus Leisleri • Put up bird and bat boxes in suitable protection of watercourses. locations. • Consider undertaking measures of the • Learn about biodiversity - check out the native Woodland Scheme. INTO/Heritage Council Heritage in • Reduce the use of chemical herbicides and Schools Programme - brings heritage pesticides on your land. specialists into primary schools to raise awareness of local heritage including biodiversity. • Check out the Green-Schools Programme. See www.greenschoolsireland.org

Local Businesses could:

• Sponsor biodiversity actions. • Support local biodiversity initiatives • Encourage environmentally-friendly practices throughout your business. • Use and promote native species within your landscape design. 30 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 31 appendix 1

THREATS TO BIODIVERSITY Cormorant Chick Phalcrocorax carbo The following is a list of activities and factors that could threaten habitats and species in County Cork. These issues were raised through the consultation process.The list is not exhaustive.

• Historic afforestation policies and methods; • Agricultural improvement in sensitive areas; • Inappropriate development in sensitive areas; • Environmental impacts of aquaculture & commercial fishing; • Overuse or inappropriate use of fungicides, herbicides, and pesticides; • Illegal dumping; • Land reclamation; • Overgrazing; • Peat extraction; • Insensitive and inappropriate roadside/verge and hedgerow management; • Water pollution and degradation of watercourses; • The spread of alien invasive species e.g. Japanese Knotweed (Fallopia japonica), Himalayan Balsam (Impatiens glandulifera), Giant Knotweed (Reynoutria sachalinensis), Grey Squirrel (Sciurus carolinensis) and others; • The growing of genetically modified organisms; • Climate change;

appendix 2

BIODIVERSITY WORKING GROUP MEMBERS

Ms. Sharon Casey Heritage Officer, Cork Co. Council Dr Michelle Cronin Coastal Marine Resources Centre, UCC Mr. Eugene Curran Forest Service Mr. Jerry Donovan Teagasc Dr.Tom Gittings Ecologist & County Nature Trust Mr Declan O’Donnell National Parks & Wildlife Service Professor John O’Halloran University College Cork Mr. Michael McPartland South Western Regional Fisheries Board Mr. Pat Roche Coillte Mr. Cyril Saich National Parks & Wildlife Service Mr. Jim Wilson Ecologist

32 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 33 appendix 3 appendix 4 PRINCIPAL LEGISLATION RELATING TO BIODIVERSITY DESIGNATED SITES FOR NATURE CONSERVATION IN COUNTY CORK

NATIONAL LEGISLATION NOTE: The list of designated sites is correct at the time of publication but is likely to be subject to change over time. • Wildlife Act, 1976 and Wildlife (Amendment) Act, 2000. • Whale Fisheries Act, 1937. • Fisheries (Amendment) Act, 1956 - 2001. • The Forestry Acts, 1946 -1988. Designated Natural Heritage proposed Natural Heritage Areas, • Planning and Development Acts, 2000 - 2006. Areas, Co Cork Co Cork (continued) • Planning and Development (Strategic Infrastructure) Act 2006. • The Roads Act 1993 - 2007. Site Site Name Site Site Name • Protection of the Environment Act 2003. Code Code • Flora (Protection) Order 1999 (SI No 94 of 1999). • European Communities (Natural habitats) Regulations, 1997 - 2005. 1059 Bog 100 • European Communities (Environmental Impact Assessment) (Amendment) 2105 Derreennatra Cutaway 103 Shournagh Valley Regulations, 1989 - 2006. 2371 Trafrask Bog 105 Sovereign Islands • European Communities (Environmental Assessment of Certain plans and Programmes) 2386 Conigar Bog 107 Templebreedy National School, Regulations 2004 (SI No 435 of 2004). 2416 Pulleen Harbour Bog • European Communities (Strategic Environmental Assessment) Regulations 2004 (SI No 436 of 2004). 2417 Leahill Bog 110 Cusroe, • Local Government (Planning and Development) Regulations, 2001 - 2007. 2447 Boggeragh Mountains 371 Swamp • European Communities (Quality of Salmonid Waters) Regulations, 1988 (S.I. No. 293/1988). 2449 Bogs 446 Loughs Aderry & Ballybutler 593 Kilcatherine Heath 899 Ballindangan Marsh EUROPEAN DIRECTIVES proposed Natural Heritage Areas, 1028 Orthon’s Island, Harbour Co Cork 1029 Araglin Valley • EU Habitats Directive (Council Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and 1034 Bandon Valley West of Bandon of Wild Fauna and Flora). Site Site Name 1035 Bandon Valley South of Dunmanway • Birds Directive (Council Directive 79/409/EEC on the Conservation of Wild Birds). Code 1036 Ponds • Water Framework Directive (Council Directive 2000/60/EC). 1037 Bateman’s Lough • Freshwater Fish Directive (Council Directive 78/659/EC). 12 Ballinvonear Pond 1039 Castle Woods • EC Directive 97/11/EC (amending Council Directive 85/337/EEC) on the Assessment of the Effects 72 Blackwater River and Estuary 1042 Carrigshane Hill of Certain Public and Private Projects on the Environment. 73 Blackwater River Callows 1043 Cleanderry Wood 74 Awbeg Valley (Below ) 1044 Cloonties Lough 75 Awbeg Valley (Above Doneraile) 1046 Douglas River Estuary* (partially INTERNATIONAL AGREEMENTS AND CONVENTIONS WHICH IRELAND 76 Ballycotton, Ballyanmona and within Cork City Council area) HAS SIGNED AND RATIFIED 1049 Eagle Lough 78 Ballyvergan Marsh 1050 Island • Convention on Biological Diversity 1992. 79 Bride/Bunaglanna Valley 1051 Firkeel Gap • European Landscape Convention, 2000. 80 Bull and Cow Rocks 1052 Gallanes Lough • Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. 83 & Knockadoon Head 1053 Garrettstown Marsh (Bern Convention), 1979. 84 (Gate Lodge) 1054 Wood • Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (Bonn Convention), 1979. 85 Ponds 1055 Glashgarriff River • Convention on Wetlands of International Importance (Ramsar Convention), 1971. 86 1057 Gouganebarra Lake • Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), 1973. 87 Garrylucas Marsh 1060 James Fort • Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the North-East Atlantic 88 Glengarriff Lodge 1062 Killaneer House Glen (OSPAR Convention), 1992. 92 Kilcolman Bog 1064 Leamlara Wood • Agreement on the Conservation of Bats in Europe (Bonn Convention), 1993. 94 Lee Valley 1065 Lough Allua • International Convention for the Regulation of Whaling, 1946. 98 Loughavaul 1066 Lough Beg • Agreement on the Conservation of African-Eurasian Migratory Waterbirds (AEWA), 99 Ballynaclashy House, North of 1067 Lough Gal (Bonn Convention), 1996. Midleton 1069 Lough Namaddara & Lough West • International Timber Trade Agreement 1994 (signed 1996). • Pan-European Biological and Landscape Diversity Strategy (endorsed 1995). • The European Network of Biogenetic Reserves, 1976.

34 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 35 appendix 4 (continued) appendix 4 (continued)

proposed Natural Heritage Areas, proposed Natural Heritage Areas, candidate Special Areas of Statutory Nature Reserves Co Cork (continued) Co Cork (continued) Conservation (SAC) (continued) Capel Island and Knockadoon Head Site Site Name Site Site Name Site Site Name Glengarriff Harbour and Woodland Code Code Code Kilcolman Bog Lough Hyne Nature Reserve & Environs 1071 Owen’s Island 1990 Owenboy River 002165 Lower River Shannon Knockomagh Wood 1072 Priory Wood, 2049 Domestic Dwelling (Near Glengarriff) 002170 Blackwater River (Cork/Waterford) The Gearagh 1073 Roancarrigbeg & Roancarrigmore 2050 Cregg Castle 002171 Bandon River 1074 Rockfarm Quarry, Little Island 2086 Ballintlea Wood 002189 Farranamanagh Lough Ramsar Sites 1075 Rosscarbery Estuary 2097 Conavmore, Ballyhooly 002280 Dunbeacon Shingle 1076 Rosttellan Lough, Shore and (Near ) 002281 Reen Point Shingle Ballycotton, Ballynamona & Shanagarry Poulnabibe Inlet 2099 Carriganass Castle, near Kealkill Ballymacoda (Clonpriest & Pillmore) 1077 Seven Heads & Dunworly Bay 2105 Derreennatra Cutaway Special Protection Areas (SPA) Blackwater River and Estuary 1080 Blackwater Valley The Gearagh 1082 Dunkettle Shore candidate Special Areas of Cork Harbour 1083 Toon Bridge Wood Conservation (SAC) Site Site Name 1084 Whitegate Bay Code Biogenetic Site 1169 Brown’s Farm,Togher Cross Roads Site Site Name 4021 Old Head of Kinsale 1183 Clasharinka Pond Code The Gearagh 1235 Ballyquirk pond 4022 Ballycotton Bay 1248 Prohus Wood 4023 Ballymacoda Bay 000077 Ballymacoda (Clonpriest 4028 Blackwater Estuary Wildfowl Sanctuaries 1249 Ballincollig Cave and Pillmore) 1284 Cappul Bridge 4030 Cork Harbour 000090 Glengarriff Harbour and Woodland Ballynamona – Shanagarry 1408 Carrigacrump Caves 4066 The Bull and the Cow Rocks 000091 Clonakilty Bay Douglas Estuary 1498 Dirk Bay 4094 Blackwater Callows 000093 Caha Mountains Kilcolman Bog 1515 Bandon Valley below Inishannon 4095 Kilcolman Bog 000097 Lough Hyne Nature Reserve and Lee Resevoir 1537 Rossnahunsoge 4109 The Gearagh Environs 4124 Soverign Islands River Blackwater 1561 Awbeg Valley 000101 Roaringwater Bay and Islands 1740 Bandon Valley (Above Inishannon) 000102 Sheep's Head proposed Special Protection Areas Refuge For Fauna 1793 Blackwater Valley (Ballincurrig Woods) 000106 St. Gobnet's Wood 1794 Blackwater Valley (Kilcummer) (SPA) 000108 The Gearagh Bull Rock 1795 Blackwater Valley (Killathy Wood) 000109 Three Castle Head to Mizen Head 1796 Blackwater Valley (Cregg) 4081 Clonakilty Bay Cow Rock 000365 Killarney National Park, Old Head of Kinsale 1797 Blackwater Valley (Beech Wood) Macgillycuddy's Reeks and Caragh 4155 1798 Blarney Lake River Catchment 4156 Sheep’s Head to Toe Head 1799 Ardamadame Wood 001040 Barley Cove to Ballyrisode Point 4161 Stack’s to 1826 Currakeel 001043 Cleanderry Wood 4162 to 1829 Ballinaltig Beg Pond 001058 Channel Mountains 1854 Boylegrove Wood 001061 Kilkeran Lake and Castlefreke Dunes 4190 Galley Head to Duneen Point 1857 Blarney Bog 001070 Myross Wood 4191 Seven Heads 1873 Derryclogher () Bog 001230 Courtmacsherry Estuary 4219 Courtmacsherry Bay 1887 Derreen Upper Bog 001547 Castletownshend 1966 Marsh 001873 Derryclogher (Knockboy) Bog 1977 Sheelane Island 001879 Glanmore Bog 1978 Ballycotton Islands 001890 Mullaghanish Bog 1979 Monkstown Creek 002036 1985 Kilinnikin 002037 Carrigeenamronety Hill 1986 Garnish Point 002158 River 1987 Cuskinny Marsh

36 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 37 appendix 5 ANNEX I HABITATS FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK appendix 5 (continued)

The following table lists the Annex I habitats within County Cork,their locations with regard to sites designated as Special Areas of Conservation (SAC) and links to the Irish Habitat Classification Link to Irish Habitat Annex I Habitats Examples of candidate SACs where (Fossitt 2000). Note: some of the habitats listed also occur outside of protected areas. Classification (Fossitt habitats are found 2000) Habitats recorded as priority habitats under the EU Habitats Directive are asterisked *.

WOODLAND HABITATS

Oak-birch-holly Old sessile oak woods with Ilex Glengarriff Harbour & woodland, St Gobnet’s Link to Irish Habitat Annex I Habitats Examples of candidate SACs woodland WN1 and Blechnum in the British Isles Wood,The Gearagh, Cleanderry Wood, Classification (Fossitt where habitats are found Blackwater River. 2000) Wet pedunculate Alluvial forests with Alnus Dunbeacon Shingle, Glengarriff Harbour & oak-ash woodland WN4 glutinosa and Fraxinus excelsior woodland,The Gearagh, Bandon River, FRESHWATER HABITATS Blackwater River.

PEATLAND HABITATS Dystrophic lakes FL1 Natural dystrophic lakes and Caha Mountains. ponds Upland blanket bog PB2 Blanket bog (*if active bog) Caha Mountains, Glanmore Bog, Derryclogher Acid oligotrophic lakes Oligotrophic waters containing Glanmore Bog. Bog, Mullaghanish Bog, Ballyhoura Mountains, FL2 very few minerals of sandy Caherbarnagh (part of Killarney National Park). plains EXPOSED ROCK HABITATS Oligotrophic to mesotrophic Caha Mountains, Caherbarnagh (part of standing waters Killarney National Park). Exposed siliceous rock Siliceous rocky slopes with Caha Mountains. Eroding/upland rivers Watercourses of plain to The Gearagh, Glanmore Bog, Bandon River, ER1 chasmophytic vegetation FW1 / Depositing/ montane levels with aquatic River Blackwater. lowland rivers FW2 vegetation COASTAL HABITATS

GRASSLAND HABITATS Rocky sea cliffs CS1, sea Vegetated sea cliffs of the Roaringwater Bay & Islands,Three Castle Head to stacks and islets CS2, Atlantic and Baltic coasts Mizen Head, Kenmare River. Dry meadows and grassy Lowland hay meadows Roaringwater Bay & Islands. sedimentary sea cliffs verges GS2 CS3 HEATH HABITATS Lagoons and saline lakes *Coastal lagoons Kilkeran Lake and Castlefreke Dunes, CW1 Farranamanagh Lough. Dry siliceous heath HH1 European dry heath Roaringwater Bay & Islands, Sheep’s Head, Embryonic dunes CD1 Embryonic shifting dunes Clonakilty Bay, Courtmacsherry Bay, Kilkeran Lake Dry calcareous heath Three Castle Head to Mizen Head, Barley and Castlefreke Dunes. HH2 Cove To Ballyrisode Point, Kenmare River, Ballyhoura Mountains, Caherbarnagh (part of Marram dunes CD2 Shifting dunes along the shoreline Clonakilty Bay, Barley Cove To Ballyrisode Point, Killarney National Park). with Ammophila arenaria ('white Courtmacsherry Bay, Kenmare River, Kilkeran Lake dunes') and Castlefreke Dunes. Wet heath HH3 Northern Atlantic wet heaths Sheep’s Head, Caha Mountains, Cleanderry Fixed dunes CD3 *Fixed coastal dunes with Clonakilty Bay, Barley Cove To Ballyrisode Point, with Erica tetralix Wood, Glanmore Bog, Ballyhoura Mountains. herbaceous vegetation ('grey Kilkeran Lake and Castlefreke Dunes, Montane heath HH4 Alpine and boreal heaths Caha Mountains. dunes') Courtmacsherry Bay, Kenmare River.

38 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 39 40 MW2 Sea inletsandbays MW4 Estuaries sedimentsLS Littoral LS1 Shingle &gravel shores Sea Caves LR5 RockLR Littoral CB1 Shingle andgravel banks CM2 Upper saltmarsh CM1 Lower saltmarsh CM1 Lower saltmarsh CM1 Lower saltmarsh Fixed dunesCD3 2000) Classification (Fossitt Link toIrishHabitat COUNTY CORK ANNEX IHABITATS FOUND WITHIN COUNTYCORK appendix 5 BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN ne aiasExamplesofcandidateSACs where Annex IHabitats Large shallow inlets&baysLarge Estuaries covered by wateratlow tide Mudflats andsandflatsnot lines Annual vegetation ofdrift seacavessubmerged orpartially Submerged Reefs banks Perennial vegetation ofstony saltmeadows Mediterranean Atlantic saltmeadows Spartina colonising mud andsand Salicornia * Atlantic decalcified fixed dunes swards 2009-2014 and otherannuals (continued) COASTAL MARINE HABITATS HABITATS habitats are found sad,KenmareRiver. Islands, Bay & Roaringwater Lough Hyne, Blackwater River. Bay, Courtmacsherry Ballymacoda, Blackwater River. Bay, Courtmacsherry Channel, Island Great Point, Cove ToBallyrisode Barley ClonakiltyBay, Ballymacoda, Bay. Courtmacsherry Clonakilty Bay, KenmareRiver. Islands, Bay & Roaringwater Lough Hyne, KenmareRiver. Islands, Bay & Roaringwater Lough Hyne, Lough. Farranamanagh Shingle, ReenPoint Dunbeacon Shingle, Kenmare River, Bay, Courtmacsherry Cove Barley To Point, Ballyrisode Blackwater River. Kenmare River, Bay, Courtmacsherry Cove Barley To Point, Ballyrisode Blackwater River. Kenmare River, Bay, Courtmacsherry GreatIslandChannel, Point, Ballyrisode Cove Barley ToBallymacoda, Great IslandChannel. Blackwater River. Bay, Courtmacsherry Point, Ballyrisode Cove Barley ToBallymacoda, Clonakilty Bay.

appendix 6 PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

Species are shown here with regards their listing on Annex II and/or Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive, the Bonn and Bern Conventions and within the Irish Wildlife Acts. Species listed within Red Data Books are also highlighted but the latter does not infer protection.

EU WILDLIFE ACT RED DATA BONN BERN HABITATS / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS HABITATS 1976 & WILDLIFE BOOK CONVENTION CONVENTION DIRECTIVE (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2000

MAMMALS

Hedgehog Erinaceus europaeus Appendix III Widespread in woodland, hedgerow and scrub habitats.

Pygmy Shrew Sorex minutus Appendix III Common & widespread in grassland, hedgerows, woodland etc.

Irish Hare Lepus timidus hibernicus Annex V Appendix III Wide variety of open habitats, e.g. grassland, upland moors etc.

Red Squirrel Sciurus vulgaris Mixed broadleaved woodland.

Pine Marten Martes martes Annex V Appendix III Woodland.

Irish Stoat Mustela erminea hibernica Appendix III Wide range of habitats (e.g. agricultural grassland, woodland, hedgerows).

Badger Meles meles Appendix III Woodland & farmland.

Otter Lutra lutra roensis Annex II & IV Appendix II Watercourses and coastline e.g. Blackwater River,The Gearagh, Roaringwater Bay.

Red Deer Cervus elaphus Woodland.

Sika Deer Cervus nippon Conifer plantations.

Fallow Deer Dama dama Woodland. appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

EU WILDLIFE ACT RED DATA BONN BERN HABITATS / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS HABITATS 1976 & WILDLIFE BOOK CONVENTION CONVENTION DIRECTIVE (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2000

MAMMALS - continued

Lesser Horseshoe Rhinolophus hipposideros Annex II & IV Appendix II Appendix II Ireland is the largest national population in Europe. Bat Restricted to western Ireland - Mayo, Galway, Clare, Limerick, Kerry & Cork. e.g. Glengarriff Woods.

Whiskered Bat Myotis mystacinus Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Known from several locations in Co. Cork.

Daubenton’s Bat Myotis daubentoni Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Widely distributed across Ireland but relatively few roots are known. Most Numerous records are from Co. Cork.

Common Pipistrellus pipistrellus Annex IV Appendix II Appendix III Common & widespread. Pipistrelle Bat

Soprano Pipistrelle Pipistrellus pygmaeus Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Common & widespread. Bat

Nathusius Pipistrellus nathusii Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Recorded in in 2005. Pipistrelle Bat

Leister’s Bat Nyctalus leisleri Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Relatively common in Ireland but scarce in Europe.

Brown Longeared Plecotus auritus Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Widely distributed across Ireland and across Co. Cork. Bat

Natterer’s Bat Myotis nattereri Annex IV Appendix II Appendix II Records are widely scattered throughout country but status unknown.

Grey Seal Halichoerus grypus Annex II & IV Roaringwater Bay important locally and regionally for the species.

appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

EU WILDLIFE ACT RED DATA BONN BERN HABITATS / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS HABITATS 1976 & WILDLIFE BOOK CONVENTION CONVENTION DIRECTIVE (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2000

MAMMALS - continued

Common Seal Phoca vitulina Annex II & IV Kenmare River, & Roaringwater Bay.

Bottlenose Dolphin Tursiops truncatus Annex II & IV Commonly seen inshore on Irish coasts e.g. Cork Harbour.

Harbour Porpoise Phocoena phocoena Annex II & IV Commonly observed around the coast e.g. Bantry Bay.

REPTILES

Common Lizard Lacerta vivipara Widespread.

AMPHIBIANS

Common Frog Rana temporaria Annex V Appendix III Widespread.

Common Newt Triturus vulgaris Widespread.

CRUSTACEANS

White-clawed Austropotamobius Annex II & V Freshwater e.g. rivers, streams. Crayfish pallipes

INSECTS

Marsh Fritillary Euphydryas aurinia Annex II Damp grassy places e.g. unimproved wet grassland. Requires a specific food-plant (Devil’s-bit Scabious Succisa pratensis) for its caterpillars. appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

EU WILDLIFE ACT RED DATA BONN BERN HABITATS / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS HABITATS 1976 & WILDLIFE BOOK CONVENTION CONVENTION DIRECTIVE (AMENDMENT) ACT, 2000

MOLLUSCS

Freshwater Margaritifera margaritifera Annex II & V Requires unpolluted well-oxygenated freshwater rivers. Pearl Mussel

Kerry Slug Geomalacus maculosus Annex II & IV Widespread on Old Red Sandstone in West Cork.

FISH

River Lamprey Lampetra fluviatilis Annex II & V Shallow inshore waters and accessible rivers e.g. Blackwater River.

Brook Lamprey Lampetra planeri Annex II Blackwater River, Bandon River, Lee and tributaries.

Sea Lamprey Petromyzon marinus Annex II Shallow inshore waters, estuaries and accessible rivers e.g. Cork Harbour & River Lee.

Allis Shad Alosa alosa Annex II & V Appendix III One of the rarest breeding fish species in Ireland. Spends most of its life at sea, returning to freshwater to spawn e.g. Blackwater River.

Twaite Shad Alosa fallax Annex II & V Appendix III One of the rarest breeding fish species in Ireland. Spends most of its life at sea, returning to freshwater to spawn e.g. Blackwater River.

Atlantic Salmon Salmo salar Annex II & V Appendix III Widespread in rivers across the country. Migrates upstream to spawn.

Smelt Osmerus eperlanus One of the rarest fish in Ireland. Migrate up rivers from the sea to spawn e.g. Blackwater River.

appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

Bird species are shown here with regards their listing on Annex I of the EU Birds Directive. All bird species are also protected under the wildlife Act (1976) and Wildlife (Amendment) Act, 2000. Bird species that are listed on BirdWatch Ireland’s ‘Birds of Conservation Concern’ are also shown although the latter does not infer protection.

BIRD SPECIES EU BIRDS BIRDS OF HABITAT NOTES / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS DIRECTIVE CONSERVATION CONCERN (BoCCI)

BIRDS

Arctic Tern Sterna paradisaea Amber-listed Summer visitor, coastal breeding bird. Bar-tailed Godwit Limosa lapponica Amber-listed Common winter visitor, Migratory, wintering wader. Black-headed Gull Larus ridibundus Red-listed Common and widespread. Black-necked Grebe Podiceps nigricollis Red-listed Lower Cork Harbour during winter. Black-tailed Godwit Limosa limosa Amber-listed Winter visitor. Estuaries, international important numbers occur at e.g. Cork Harbour, Clonakilty Bay.

Barn Owl Tyto alba Red-listed Has undergone major declines; Co. Cork is a stronghold with circa 25 breeding sites. Bewick’s Swan Cygnus columbianus Red-listed Winter visitor; e.g. scarce since mid 1990’s. bewickii

Black Guillemot Cepphus grylle Amber-listed Resident breeding species e.g. Cape Clear. Brent Goose Branta bernicla hrota Amber-listed Winter visitor e.g. Ballycotton Bay, Courtmacsherry Bay. Chough Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Red-listed Coastal resident, cliffs, headlands and islands. Distribution is west of the country. Commom Gull Larus canus Amber-listed Common during winter; breeding status unknown. Common Scoter Melanitta nigra Red-listed Small groups may be seen on passage during autumn. Scarce in winter. Common Tern Sterna hirundo Amber-listed Summer visitor, breed in Cork Harbour. Coot Fulica atra Amber-listed Uncommon breeding species. Cormorant Phalacrocorax Amber-listed Widespread, rivers, lakes and coastal. phalacrocorax appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

BIRD SPECIES EU BIRDS BIRDS OF HABITAT NOTES / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS DIRECTIVE CONSERVATION CONCERN (BoCCI)

BIRDS

Curlew Numenius arquta Red-listed Common winter visitor. Small breeding numbers. Cuckoo Cuclus canorus Amber-listed Summer visitor. Declined in recent years. Dunlin Calidris alpina Amber-listed Common winter visitor, estuaries and bays. Gannet Morus bassanus Amber-listed Coastal waters; breeds on Bull Rock. Goldeneye Bucephala clangula Amber-listed Locally common winter visitor. Golden Plover Pluvialis apricaria Red-listed Common winter visitor e.g. Rosscarbery & Courtmacsherry Bays. Grasshopper Warbler Locustella naevia Amber-listed Uncommon breeding species. Great Crested Grebe Podiceps cristatus Amber-listed Winter visitor e.g. Cork Harbour, uncommon elsewhere. Great Northern Diver Gavia immer Amber-listed Winter visitor, coastal waters. Courtmacsherry Bay. Greenland White-fronted Anser albifrons flavirostris Amber-listed Winter visitor; scarce other than small numbers at kilcolman Bog Nature Reserve & SPA. Goose Grey Plover Pluvialis squatarola Amber-listed Common winter visitor. Estuaries and bays. Guillemot Uria aalgae Amber-listed Breeding species; Old Head of Kinsale largest colony in county. Hen Harrier Circus cyaneus Amber-listed Cork holds approx 20% of national population. e.g. Mullaghareirks, Nagles, Ballyhouras and Boggeraghs. Population stable but possible decline in east.

Jack Snipe Lymnocyptes minimus Amber-listed Scarce winter visitor. Kingfisher Alcedo atthis Amber-listed Common & widespread along rivers, streams. Knot Calidris canutus Red-listed Common winter visitor. Estuaries and bays.

appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

BIRD SPECIES EU BIRDS BIRDS OF HABITAT NOTES / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS DIRECTIVE CONSERVATION CONCERN (BoCCI)

BIRDS

Lapwing Vanellus vanellus Red-listed Common winter visitor. Estuaries, bays and coastal grassland. Little Egret Egretta garzetta Amber-listed Naturalised. Cork Harbour is the stronghold in Co Cork with 4 breeding sites. Merlin Falco Columbarius Amber-listed Difficult to survey and little information. Bird Atlas 2007-2011 may help provide important data. Suitable habitat has declined in recent years. Nightjar Caprimulgus europaeus Red-listed Rare passage migrant. Peregrine Falcon Falco peregrinus Amber-listed Widespread. Dramatic declines in 1950’s and 60’s but has since recovered and now increasing. Pintail Anas acuta Red-listed Winter visitor; localised - mainly Cork Harbour. Pochard Aythya ferina Amber-listed Winter visitor. Localised. Razorbill Alca torda Amber-listed Breeding species; Old Head of Kinsale largest in country. Red Grouse Lagopus lagopus scoticus Red-listed Distribution restricted to North Cork mountains. Rare in Cork. Redpoll Carduelis flammea Amber-listed Locally common and winter visitor. Redshank Tringa totanus Red-listed Common winter visitor. International important numbers found in e.g. Cork Harbour. Reed Warbler Acrocephalus scirpaceus Amber-listed Migratory, summer visitor. Only at Ballyvergan Marsh and Ballycotton. Red-breasted Merganser Mergus serrator Amber-listed Coastal waters, lakes; Cork Harbour, Courtmacsherry Bay. Red-throated Diver Gavia stellatus Amber-listed Passage migrant and winter visitor; coastal waters e.g. Ballycotten Bay, off Knockadoon Head. Sand Martin Riparia riparia Amber-listed Common migratory summer visitor. Sandwich Tern Sterna sandvicensis Amber-listed Summer visitor; no recent breeding records. Shelduck Tadorna tadorna Amber-listed Resident and widespread; breeds in small numbers in many areas. appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

BIRD SPECIES EU BIRDS BIRDS OF HABITAT NOTES / EXAMPLE LOCATIONS DIRECTIVE CONSERVATION CONCERN (BoCCI)

BIRDS

Short-eared owl Asio flammeus Amber-listed Winter visitor; coastal farmland and marshes. Skylark Alauda arvensis Amber-listed Uncommon breeding species, most likely declined but Bird Atlas 2007-2011 will provide important data. Lowland and coastal habitats most threatened.

Snipe Gallinago gallinago Amber-listed Widespread; breeding status unknown. Sooty Shearwater Puffinus griseus Red-listed Common passage migrant late summer - autumn e.g. off Cape Clear, Galley Head. Spotted Flycatcher Muscicapa striata Amber-listed Uncommon, woodland habitats; has declined significantly. Stock Dove Columba oenas Amber-listed Considered widespread but under-recorded. Stonechat Saxicola torquata Amber-listed Relatively common.

Storm Petrel Hydrobates pelagicus Amber-listed Summer visitor. Breeding species e.g. Bull and Cow Rocks, Fastnet Rock. Swallow Hirundo rustica Amber-listed Common summer visitor. Teal Anas crecca Amber-listed Common winter visitor. Not known to breed. Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula Amber-listed Winter visitor e.g. Douglas Estuary. Water Rail Rallus rallus Amber-listed Localised breeding species. Whooper Swan Cygnus cygnus Amber-listed Winter visitor; e.g. Blackwater River and callows. Wigeon Anas penelope Amber-listed Common winter visitor. Not known to breed. Woodcock Scolopax rustocola Amber-listed Difficult to survey and probably overlooked. Yellowhammer Emberiza citrinella Red-listed Locally common. More numerous in south and east of county.

appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

Plant species are shown here with regards their listing on Annex II and/or Annex IV of the EU Habitats Directive and those that are protected under the Flora Protection Order, 1999. Species listed on the Flora Red Data list are also shown, although the latter does not infer protection.

EU FLORA RED DATA HABITATS PROTECTION BOOK DIRECTIVE ORDER, 1999

RED DATA BOOK: E-ENDANGERED, V-VULNERABLE, R-RARE, I-INDETERMINABLE, DD-DATA DEFICIENT

FLOWERING PLANTS

Orange Foxtail Alopecurus aequalis

Starved Wood-sedge Carex depauperata R

Lesser Centaury Centaurium pulchellum V

Slender Cottongrass Eriophorum gracile R

Small Cudweed Filago minima R

Little Robin Geranium purpureum V

Round-leaved Crane’s-bill Geranium rotundifolium V

Meadow Barley Hordeum secalinum V

Irish St John’s-wort Hypericum canadense R

Sea Pea Lathyrus japonicus DD

Mudwort Limosella aquatica R

Hairy Bird’s-foot-trefoil Lotus subbiflorus R

Pennyroyal Mentha pulegium V appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

EU FLORA RED DATA HABITATS PROTECTION BOOK DIRECTIVE ORDER, 1999

RED DATA BOOK: E-ENDANGERED, V-VULNERABLE, R-RARE, I-INDETERMINABLE, DD-DATA DEFICIENT

FLOWERING PLANTS

Recurved Sandwort Minuarta recurva R

Weasel’s-snout Misopates orontium V

Green-winged Orchid Orchis morio V

Bird’s-foot Ornithopus perpusillus R

Greater Broomrape Orobanche rapum-genistae R

Tufted Salt-marsh Grass Puccinellia fasciculata R

Golden Dock Rumex maritimus R

Wild Clary Salvia verbenaca R

Annual Knawel Scleranthus annuus

Kerry Lily Simethis planifolia V

Irish Lady’s Tresses Spiranthes romanzoffiana R

Betony Stachys officinalis V

Spotted Rock-rose Tuberaria guttata R

Pale Dog-violet Viola lactea V

appendix 6 (continued) PROTECTED SPECIES FOUND WITHIN COUNTY CORK

EU FLORA RED DATA HABITATS PROTECTION BOOK DIRECTIVE ORDER, 1999

RED DATA BOOK: E-ENDANGERED, V-VULNERABLE, R-RARE, I-INDETERMINABLE, DD-DATA DEFICIENT

FERNS & FERN ALLIES

Lanceolate Spleenwort Asplenium obovatum R

Fir Clubmoss Huperzia selago Annex V

Marsh Clubmoss Lycopodiella inundata Annex V R

Killarney Fern Trichomanes speciosum Annex II &IV

BRYOPHYTES (MOSSES & LIVERWORTS)

Orthotrichum pallens

Orthotrichum sprucei

Orthotrichum stramineum*

Plagiochila atlantica

Tortula wilsonii

Sphagnum (Mosses) 22 Sphagnum species recorded within Co Cork Annex V

* no recent records appendix 7 appendix 7

SPECIES AND HABITATS OF SPECIAL CONSERVATION SIGNIFICANCE WITHIN COUNTY CORK Species - Criteria for selection There are no national guidelines for prioritising species or habitats of special local conservation importance. MAMMALS Therefore the Biodiversity Working Group has agreed a set of criteria that aims to identify both species of global/national conservation concern within the local area (criteria A, B or C) and those species that are Hedgehog (B) Leisler’s Bat ** (B3), E locally distinctive and are therefore of local/regional conservation concern (criteria D, E and F). Erinaceus europaeus Nyctalus leisleri

aListed on the 2007 IUCN Red List within the following categories: critically endangered, endangered, Irish Hare ** B3, C, F Natterer’s Bat ** (B3), (C), (D) vulnerable or near threatened. Lepus timidus hibernicus Myotis nattereri

THREAT CRITERIA Stoat B3, F Brown Long-eared Bat ** (B3) Mustela erminea hibernica Plecotus auritus A Endemic, globally threatened species (listed on IUCNRed-Listsa) Red Squirrel A, B3, C, E, F Nathusis Pipistrelle Bat ** (B3) Sciurus vulgaris Pipistresllu nathusii B Nationally declining species: Pine Marten ** B(3), F Grey Seal ** E B1 Any species which has declined by 50% or more over the past 25 years. Martes martes Halichoerus grypus B2 Any species where the Irish numbers or range have declined by more than 25% in the last 25 years. Badger B3 Common Seal ** E B3 Any species where data deficiency precludes listing as B1/B2 but where there is evidence Meles meles Phoca vitulina of decline or a known threat: also includes e.g. restricted geographic range, highly specialised habitat requirements, pressures from disease, reduction in food supply, threats Otter ** A, B3, F Bottlenose Dolphin ** (B), E, F Lutra lutra roensis Tursiops truncates to habitat etc.

Lesser Horseshoe Bat ** B3, (C), (D), E, F Harbour Porpoise ** A, B, C, E, F C All nationally threatened species with native or long-established naturalised populations. Rhinolophus hipposideros Phocoena phocoena Nationally threatened species are those listed as threatened in Red Data Lists, red-listed bird species and species considered as threatened by expert opinion (for groups where no red Whiskered Bat ** B3, (C), (D) Common Dolphin (B3),E,F listing has been undertaken). Myotis mystacinus Celphinus delphis

LOCAL SIGNIFICANCE CRITERIA Brandt’s Bat ** B3 Fin Whale ** A, B3, C, E, F Myotis brandtii Balaenoptera physalus D Species with native or long-established naturalised populations, which are rare in Co Cork and are known to be in national or regional decline. Daubenton’s Bat ** B3, (C), (D), F Humpback Whale ** A, B3, C, E, F Myotis daubentoni Megaptera novaeangliae E Species of conservation concern for which Co Cork holds a large proportion of the Common Pipistrelle Bat ** (B3) Minke Whale ** F national/regional population (i.e. a species for which Co Cork is important for maintaining Pipistrellus pipistrellus Balaenoptera acutorostrata the population at regional or national level). Soprano Pipistrelle Bat ** (B3) Risso’s Dolphin ** B3, F F Species considered of special county significance e.g. of cultural value in Co. Cork (e.g. Pipistrellus pygmaeus Grampus griseus flagship species) and species that are considered good indicators of their habitats. MOLLUSCS

DD shown by a taxa grouping refers to a data deficiency in this area. Freshwater Pearl Mussel ** A, (B1), C, E, F Kerry Slug ** B3, E Margaritifera margaritifera Geomalacus maculosus ** identifies species that are afforded protection under the EU Habitats Directive or EU Birds Directive.

NB The current priority list is based on the information review and consultation undertaken to date and includes all species/taxa for which data was available. In cases where there is insufficient data to be able to confidently assign criteria to species, potential or likely criteria are shown in brackets ().

52 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 53 appendix 7 (continued) appendix 7 (continued)

FISH

River Lamprey ** B3 (C) Twaite Shad ** B3, C Chimney Sweeper B3, D, E Silky Wainscot (B3), (C), D, E Lampetra fuluviatilis Alosa fallax Odezia atrata maritimus

Brook Lamprey ** B3 (C) Atlantic Salmon ** B3, (C), F Lampetra planeri Salmo salar Marsh Fritillary ** A, B3, C, D, E Dark Green Fritillary B3, D Sea Lamprey ** B3 (C) Smelt B3, C, E Euphydryas aurinia Argynnis aglaja Petromyzon marinus Osmerus eperlanus Small Heath B3, D Grayling B3, D, E Allis Shad ** B3, C Coenonympha pamphilus Hipparchia semele Alosa Alosa Gatekeeper B3, E Wall Brown (B3), D CRUSTACEANS Pyronia tithonus Lasiommata megera

White-clawed Crayfish ** A, B3, D Real’s Wood White (B3), D Purple Hairstreak (B3), (D) Austropotamobius pallipes Leptidea reali Quercusia quercus

BEES Green Hairstreak (B3), E Callophyrys rubi Andrena fuscipes B1, C, E Coelioxys inermis B3, D, E DRAGONFLIES Andrena humilis B1, C, E Colletes floralis B1, C, D, E Black-tailed Skimmer (B3), D, E Downy Emerald (B3), D, E Bombus bohemicus B1, C, D Halictus tumulorum B1, C, D, E Orthetrium cancellatum Cordulia aenea

Bombus campestris B1, C, D, E Lasioglossum nitidiusculum B1, C, D, E BIRDS

Bombus rupestris B1, C, D, E Nomada goodeniana B1, C, D, E Arctic Tern ** (B3) Chough ** B1, C, E Sterna paradisaea Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax Bombus lapidaries B3, C, D, E Nomada panzeri B1, C, D, E Balearic Shearwater ** A, E Coot (B3) Bombus muscorum B3, C, D Nomada striata B1, C, D, E Puffinus maruetanicus Fulica atra

Bombus ruderarius B1, C, D Bar-tailed Godwit ** (B3), E Common Gull B3, E Limosa lapponica Larus canus HOVERFLIES Black Guillemot (B3) Cormorant (B3) Brachyopa insensilis (B3), C, D, E Microdon myrmicae (B3), C, D, E Cepphus grille Phalacrocorax phalacrocorax Esirtalis cryptarum (B3), C, D, E Parasyrphys nigritarsis (B3), C, D, E Black-tailed Godwit A, B3, E Curlew B1, C, E Lejogaster tarsata (B3), C, D, E Xanthandrus comtus (B3), C, D, E Limosa limosa Numenius arquata

Microdon analis (B3), C, D, E Xylota florum (B3), C, D, E Barn Owl ** B1, C, D, E Cuckoo B2, D Tyto alba Cuclus canorus WATERBEETLES Bewick’s Swan ** B3, D Dunlin B3, E Ochthebius marinus B1, C, D, E Helophorus fulgidicollis B1, C, D, E Cygnus columbianus Calidris alpina bewickii Agabus conspersus B1, C, D, E

54 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 55 appendix 7 (continued) appendix 7 (continued)

BIRDS BIRDS Golden Plover ** B2, E Red Grouse B1, C, D Yellowhammer B3 Pluvialis apricaria Lagopus lagopus scoticus Emberiza citrinella

Grasshopper Warbler B3, (D) Redshank B3, E FLOWERING PLANTS Locustella naevia Tringa totanus Annual Knawel B3, D, E Little Robin B3, C, E, F Great-crested Grebe B3, E Reed Warbler B3, E Scleranthus annuus Geranium purpureum Podiceps cristatus Acrocephalus scirpaceus Betony B3, C, D, E Meadow Barley B3, C, D Great Northern Diver ** (B3), E Red-breasted Merganser (B3), E Stachys officinalis Hordeum secalinum Gavia immer Mergus serrator Bird’s Foot B3, C, E Mudwort B3, C, E Greenland White-fronted B3 Shag B2, E Ornithopus perpusillus Limosella aquatica Goose ** Phalacrocorax aristotlis Anser albifrons flavirostris Dittander B3, E Orange Foxtail B3, D, E Lepidium latifolium Alopecurus aequalis Grey Plover B3, E Shelduck (B3), E Pluvialis squatarola Tadorna tadorna Fiddle Dock B3, E Pale Dog-violet B3, C, E Rumex pulcher Viola lacteal Guillemot E Skylark B2, E Uria aalgae Alauda arvensis Golden Dock B3, C, E Pennyroyal B3, C, D, E, F Rumex maritiums Mentha pulegium Hen Harrier ** B1, C, E, (F) Snipe (B2) Circus cyaneus Gallinago gallinago Greater Broomrape B3, C, D, E Recurved Sandwort B3, C, E Orobanche rapum-genistae Minuarta recurva Herring Gull B1, C, (E) Spotted Flycatcher (B2), D Larus argentatus Muscicapa striata Green-winged Orchid B3, C, D, E Round-leaved Crane’s-bill B3, C, E, F Orchis morio Geranium rotundifolium Kingfisher ** B2, F Stock Dove (B3) Alcedo atthis Columba oenas Hairy Bird’s-foot-trefoil B3, C, E Sea Kale B3, E Lotus subbiflorus Crambe maritime Knot B3 Storm Petrel ** B3, E Calidris canutus Hydrobates pelagicus Irish Lady’s Tresses B3, C, D, E Sea Pea B3, C, E Spiranthes romanzoffiana Lathyrus japonicus Lapwing B1, C, E Water Rail B3 Vanellus vanellus Rallus rallus Irish St John’s-wort B3, C, E Slender Cottongrass B3, C, E Hypericum canadense Eriophorum gracile Merlin ** (B3) Whooper Swan ** B3 Falco columbarius Cygnus cygnus Irish Spleenwort B3, D, E Small Cudweed B3, C, D, E Asplenium onopteris Filago minima Peregrine Falcon ** B1, E Wigeon B3, E Falco peregrinus Anas penelope Kerry Lily B3, C, E, F Small-flowered Buttercup B3, E Simethis planifolia Ranunculus parviflorus Pintail B3, E Woodcock B3 Anas acuta Scolopax rustocola Lesser Centaury B3, C, E Spotted Rock-rose B3, C, E Centaurium pulchellum Tuberaria guttata

56 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 57 appendix 7 (continued) appendix 7 (continued)

FLOWERING PLANTS Habitats - Criteria for selection

Starved Wood-sedge B3, E Weasel’s-snout B3, C, D, E Habitats are selected if they qualify under one of the following criteria (A – E): Carex depauperata Misopates orontium A Habitats that are considered rare, at risk or have undergone/are undergoing a high rate of decline Thick-leaved Stonecrop B3, E Wild Clary B3, C, D, E in extent and/or quality at a national level and therefore examples in Co Cork are important at a Sedum dasphyllum Salvia verbenaca national scale. B Habitats that are considered rare, at risk or have undergone/are undergoing a high rate of decline Three-lobed Crowfoot B3, C, E Wood Spurge B3, E in extent and/or quality at a regional level and therefore examples in Co Cork are important at a Ranunculus tripartitus Euphorbia amygdaloides regional scale. C Habitats that are considered rare, at risk or have undergone/are undergoing a high rate of decline Tufted Salt-marsh Grass B3, C, D, E in extent and/or quality at a local level and hence their conservation is of great local significance. Puccinellia fasciculate D Habitats which are important for assemblages of key species/species of conservation concern. E Other important factors – e.g. habitats of special county significance, habitats subject to a significant FERNS AND FERN ALLIES increase in human activities which are likely to cause damage (and therefore cause a decline in habitat extent/quality in future); habitats for which there are significant gaps in knowledge within the Fir Clubmoss B3, D, E Lanceolate Spleenwort B3, C, D, E county. Huperzia selago Asplenium obovatum NB Criteria are assigned to habitats based on known status or trends. In cases where there is insufficient Killarney Fern ** B3, E Marsh Clubmoss B3, C, D, E data to be able to confidently assign criteria to habitats, potential or likely criteria are shown in brackets Trichomanes speciosum Lycopodiella inundata (). Habitats for which there is a data deficiency in the county are marked DD.

BRYOPHYTES Some of the habitats selected link with Annex I habitats on the EU Habitats Directive. Therefore some of the habitats listed are found within protected areas within the county and well as within undesignated Orthorichum pallens B3, C, (D) Plagiochila atlantica B3, C, (D) areas. (See Appendix 5). Orthotrichum sprucei B3, C, (D) Tortula wilsonii B3, C, (D)

Orthotrichum stramineum * B3, C, (D) Sphagnum Mosses – B3, C, (D) HABITATS OF SPECIAL CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE CRITERIA 22 Sphagnum species IN COUNTY CORK recorded within Co. Cork (Codes relate to the Irish Habitat Classification, Fossitt, 2000)

FUNGI -DD FRESHWATER HABITATS

Lakes and ponds (FL1, FL2, FL4, FL5) (A, B), C

Watercourses (upland & lowland streams and rivers FW1 and FW2) (A,B,C),D

Reedbeds (FS1) A, B, C, D, E

Marsh (GM1) C, DD

WOODLAND HABITATS

Ancient and/or semi-natural woodland (WN) A, B, C, D

Wet pedunculate oak-ash woodland (WN4) A, B, C, D

58 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 59 appendix 7 (continued) appendix 8 CONSULTATION SUBMISSIONS

HABITATS OF SPECIAL CONSERVATION IMPORTANCE CRITERIA IN COUNTY CORK We are grateful to the following people and organisations who Mr Patrick Smiddy, National Parks & Wildlife Service. (Codes relate to the Irish Habitat Classification, Fossitt, 2000) gave information, data, personal comments and advice during Dr Paddy Sleeman, University College Cork. the consultation process for this Biodiversity Action Plan. Dr Neil Stronach, Fota Wildlife Park. GRASSLAND HABITATS Ms Eva Sweeney, National Parks & Wildlife Service. Dr Pascal Sweeney. Lowland hay meadows (GS2 part) A, B, C, D Mr Colin Barton, Cork Ecology. Dr Pádraig Wheelan, University College Cork. Dr Simon Berrow, Irish Whale & Dolphin Group. Mr Pádraig Whooley, Irish Whale & Dolphin Group IWDG. Dry calcareous grassland (GS1 part) (B), C, D, E Mr Ken Bond, University College Cork. Dr Mark Wilson, University College Cork. Dr Gavin Burnell, University College Cork. Mr Rodney Daunt. Species-rich wet grassland (GS4 part) (B), C, D, E Dr Debbie Chapman, UCC. Mr Ted Cook, Macroom District Environmental Group. Mr Anthony Cohu,West Cork. Ms Maura Scannell, BSBI,Vice County Recorder. Molinia grassland (GS4 part) (B), C, D, E Dr Michelle Cronin, Coastal and Marine Resources Mr Cameron Ryle. Centre, UCC. Ms Clare Heardman, National Parks and Wildlife Service. Mr Paul Dansie, Atkins. Ms Becca Hayhow. HEATH HABITATS Mr Rodney Daunt, County Nature Trust. Ms Mamie Bowen, Cork Harbour Alliance for a Mr John Earley. Safe Environment. Montane Heath (HH4) DD Mr Dara Fitzpatrick, County Nature Trust. Ms Mary O’Leary, Cork Harbour Alliance for a Ms Lynn Daley, Irish Natural Forestry Foundation (INFF). Safe Environment. PEATLAND HABITATS Professor John Davenport, University College Cork. Mr Michael Murphy. Dr Tom Gittings, University College Cork. Mr Patrick Treacy, Cork Environmental Forum. Upland blanket bog (PB2) (A, B), C, D, E Ms Joanne Goodyear. Mr Donal O’Leary, Macroom District Environmental Group. Mr Geoff Hamilton, Irish Squirrel Project. Ms Tasha Harty. Cutover Bog (PB4) (A, B), C, D, E Ms Becca Hayhow, University of East Anglia. Mr Ryan Howard, South and East Cork Area Development. Ms Clare Heardman National Parks & Wildlife Service. Mr Paddy Sleeman, UCC. Lowland blanket bog (A, B), C, D, E Ms Jacqi Hodgson, Cork Environmental Forum. Mr Padraig Whooley, Irish Whale and Dolphin Group. Mr Conor Kelleher, Cork Bat Group. Ms Mary Toomey, An Taisce. Poor fen and flush (PF2) A, B, C, D, E Dr Tom Kelly, University College Cork. Mr Feargal Duff. Mr John Lucey, Environmental Protection Agency. Transition Mire (PF3) A, B, C, D, E Mr John Lusby, BirdWatch Ireland. An Taisce. Mr Ross Macklin, Atkins. BirdWatch Ireland. EXPOSED ROCK Ms Sarah Malone, IPCC. Coastal & Marine Resources Centre, UCC. Dr Rob McAllen, University College Cork. Coillte. Exposed Calcareous Rock (ER2) D, DD Dr Luca Mirim, UCC. County Nature Trust. Mr Matt Murphy, Sherkin Island Marine Station. Cork Environmental Forum. Mr Declan O'Donnell, National Parks & Wildlife Service. COASTAL HABITATS South and East Cork Area Development (SECAD). Dr Paul O'Donoghue, Atkins. Failte Ireland. Ms Birgit O’Driscoll, Local Area Green Schools Coordinator. Coastal soft cliffs (part of sedimentary sea cliffs CS3) A, B, C, D, E Forest Service. Mr Danny O'Keeffe, National Parks & Wildlife Service. Fota Wildlife Park. Mr Cathal O’Mahony, Coastal and Marine Resources Lagoons and saline lakes (CW1) (A, B), C, D Irish Natural Forestry Foundation. Centre, UCC. Irish Peatland Conservation Council. Mr Tony O’Mahony, BSBI County Recorder. Sand Dunes (CD1, CD2, CD3) (A, B), C, E Irish Wildlife Trust. Dr Fionulla O’Neill. Macroom District Environmental Group. Dr Geoff Oliver. Saltmarsh (CM1, CM2) A, B, C, D, E Country Park. Mr Tony Nagle, Irish Raptor Study Group. National Parks & Wildlife Service. Dr Ruth Ramsay, University College Cork. Skibbereen Heritage centre. MARINE HABITATS Dr Eugene Ross, Institute of Technology,Tralee. South Western River Basin District (SWRBD). Mr Cyril Saich, National Parks & Wildlife Service. Rocky Shores (LR) D, E Teagasc. Ms Maura Scannell. West Cork Leader. Dr M. Sheehy-Skeffington, NUI Galway. Littoral sediments (LS) D, E

60 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 COUNTY CORK BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN 2009-2014 61 glossary glossary (continued)

Alluvial Relating to silty deposits transported by water, or occurring on river floodplains. Habitat Place where an organism, plant or animal lives.

Aquaculture The cultivation of aquatic animals, plants especially fish, shellfish and seaweed, in natural or controlled Home Range The area in which an animal normally ranges. marine or freshwater conditions. Indigenous Native to Ireland. Benthic Referring to the bottom of the waterbody. Benthic organisms live on or in the bottom sediments. Intertidal The zone from the lowest to the highest tide mark. Biodiversity The variability among living organisms from all sources including inter alia, terrestrial, marine and other aquatic ecosystems and the ecological complexes of which they are a part; this includes diversity within species, Invasive Species A species that is non-native to the ecosystem under consideration and whose introduction causes or is likely to between species and of ecosystems’ (source:The Convention on Biological Diversity). cause economic or environmental harm or harm to human health.

Biotic Factors The influence of living components of the environment on organisms. IUCN International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources:World’s largest conservation network and body that monitors the state of the world’s species through the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Bivalve A mollusc that has two valves or two shells that close together. Keystone Species A species whose activities have a significant role in determining community structure. Bern Convention Abbreviated term for the Bern Convention on the Conservation of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats. This imposes obligations on signatories to conserve wild plants, birds and other animals. Mollusc An animal belonging to the Phylum Mollusca such as a snail, slug or clam.

Bog Wetland ecosystem characterised by an accumulation of peat, acid conditions and dominance Mosaic Complex pattern or patchwork of habitats or species. of Sphagnum moss. Native Species The native species in any particular area of interest are those which arrived, established, and survived there Bonn Convention Abbreviated term for the Bonn Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals. without direct or indirect human assistance. This requires the signatories to protect listed endangered migratory species. Naturalised Relating to introduced or non-native species that have invaded native communities and become successfully established. Brackish Slightly salty water. Mixture of freshwater and saltwater. Peatland Any ecosystem dominated by peat e.g. bog, fen, mire. Bryophyte Division of the plant kingdom including mosses, liverworts and hornworts. Phytoplankton The part of the plankton that photosynthesises – mainly single-celled algae but also includes some bacteria. Calcareous Rich in calcium salts or pertaining to limestone or chalk. Plankton Aggregations of small plant and animal organisms that float or drift in the water column. Cetaceans Group of marine mammals including whales, dolphins and porpoises. Predator An organism that kills and consumes other organisms. Colonisation The entry and spread of a species into an area from which it was previously absent. Richness A component of species diversity; the number of species present in an area. Community All the organisms that live in a particular habitat. Riffle Shallow section of a river where water flows swiftly over coarse gravels, rocks and boulders. Coppice Traditional form of woodland management involving the repeated cutting back of woody shoots on a cyclic rotation, the length of which can be varied to yield different produce. Riparian Referring to the bank of a river.

Ecology The study of the interactions between organisms and their physical, chemical and biological environment. Species The lowest unit of classification used for plants and animals. Refers to a group of populations that are genetically similar and are able to breed freely and produce fertile offspring. Ecosystem Comprises all plants and animals together with all the chemical and physical components of the environment in which they live. Vascular Plants Higher plants with specialised conducting tissue, including angiosperms (flowering plants), ferns and clubmosses.

Fen A wetland in which peat accumulates which has a permanently high water level and receives water from Waterbirds Waterbirds are defined as ‘’birds that are ecologically dependent on wetlands’’ (Ramsar Convention, 1971). groundwater and surface water. The term waterbird is considered synonymous with waterfowl and includes divers, grebes), swans, geese and ducks, gulls, terns and wading birds.

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