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.

Spotted Redshank

Irish Name

Cosdeargán breac

Scientific name

Tringa erythropus

Bird Family

Waders

Starling

Irish Name

Druid

Scientific name

Sturnus vulgaris

Bird Family

Starling

Stock Dove

Irish Name

Colm gorm

Scientific name

Columba oenas

Bird Family

Pigeons & Doves

Stonechat

Irish Name

Caislín cloch

Scientific name

Saxicola rubicola

Bird Family

Chats

Storm Petrel

Irish Name

Guairdeall

Scientific name

Hydrobates pelagicus

Bird Family

Tubenoses

Surf Scoter

Irish Name

Scótar toinne

Scientific name

Mellanitta perspicillata

Bird Family

Ducks

Swallow

Irish Name

Fáinleog

Scientific name

Hirundo rustica

Bird Family

Swallows & Martins

Swift

Irish Name

Gabhlán gaoithe

Scientific name

Apus apus

Bird Family

Swift

Teal

Irish Name

Praslacha

Scientific name

Anas crecca

Bird Family

Ducks

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