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.

Lesser Whitethroat

Irish Name

Gilphíb bheag

Scientific name

Linaria cannabina

Bird Family

Warblers

Long-tailed Tit

Irish Name

Meantán earrfhada

Scientific name

Aegithalus caudatus

Bird Family

Tits

Magpie

Irish Name

Snag breac

Scientific name

Pica pica

Bird Family

Crows

Mallard

Irish Name

Mallard

Scientific name

Anas platyrhynchos

Bird Family

Ducks

Mistle Thrush

Irish Name

Smólach mór

Scientific name

Turdus viscivorus

Bird Family

Thrushes

Moorhen

Irish Name

Cearc uisce

Scientific name

Gallinula chloropus

Bird Family

Crakes & Rails

Mute Swan

Irish Name

Eala bhalbh

Scientific name

Cygnus olor

Bird Family

Swans

Peregrine

Irish Name

Fabhcún gorm

Scientific name

Falco peregrinus

Bird Family

Raptors

Pied Wagtail

Irish Name

Glasóg shráide

Scientific name

Motacilla alba yarrellii

Bird Family

Wagtails

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