Jay
Irish Name
Scréachóg / Scréachóg choille
Scientific name
Garrulus glandarius
Bird Family
Crows
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.
Scréachóg / Scréachóg choille
Garrulus glandarius
Crows
Pocaire gaoithe
Falco tinnunculus
Raptors
Cruidín
Alcedo atthis
Kingfisher
Saidhbhéar
Rissa tridactyla
Gulls
Cnota
Calidris canutus
Waders
Pilibín
Vanellus vanellus
Waders
Guairdeall gabhlach
Oceanodroma leucorhoa
Tubenoses
Droimneach beag
Larus fuscus
White-headed Gulls
Gilphíb bheag
Curruca curruca
Warblers
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