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List of Ireland's Birds

Search the A-Z of Ireland's Birds

Although a comparatively high number of bird species have been recorded in Ireland, with over 450 species currently on the Irish list, our island biogeography means we have considerably fewer breeding birds than our nearest neighbours. Many birds are migratory and many are rare or unusual in Ireland, despite the fact that they are common residents across the Irish Sea in Britain.

The fact that Ireland has been an isolated Island for over 8,000 years means that several species, widespread in Britain and elsewhere in Europe, that do not move great distances are absent. Examples include: Tawny Owl, Willow Tit, Marsh Tit, Nuthatch and most woodpecker species. In addition, Ireland’s mild weather means resident birds have an advantage over visitors in terms of early breeding and choice of best habitats. Ireland has fewer habitat types than Britain and continental Europe, with fewer deciduous woodlands, Scots pine forests, heaths and high mountain ranges.

Barnacle Goose

Irish Name

Gé ghiúrainn

Scientific name

Branta leucopsis

Bird Family

Geese

Bean Goose

Irish Name

Síolghé

Scientific name

Anser fabalis

Bird Family

Geese

Brent Goose (Dark-bellied)

Irish Name

Cadhan

Scientific name

Branta bernicla bernicla

Bird Family

Geese

Brent Goose (Light-bellied)

Irish Name

Cadhan

Scientific name

Branta bernicla hrota

Bird Family

Geese

Canada Goose

Irish Name

Gé Cheanadach

Scientific name

Branta canadensis

Bird Family

Geese

Greenland White-fronted Goose

Irish Name

Gé Bhánéadanach

Scientific name

Anser albifrons flavirostris

Bird Family

Geese

Greylag Goose

Irish Name

Gé Ghlas

Scientific name

Anser anser

Bird Family

Geese

Pink-footed Goose

Irish Name

Gé ghobghearr

Scientific name

Anser brachyrhynchus

Bird Family

Geese

Snow Goose

Irish Name

Gé Shneachta

Scientific name

Anser caerulescens

Bird Family

Geese

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