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.

Redwing

Irish Name

Deargán sneachta

Scientific name

Turdus iliacus

Bird Family

Thrushes

Robin

Irish Name

Spideog

Scientific name

Erithacus rubecula

Bird Family

Chats

Rock Dove

Irish Name

Colm aille

Scientific name

Columba livia

Bird Family

Pigeons & Doves

Rook

Irish Name

Rúcach

Scientific name

Corvus frugilegus

Bird Family

Crows

Siskin

Irish Name

Siscín

Scientific name

Spinus spinus

Bird Family

Finches

Song Thrush

Irish Name

Smólach ceoil

Scientific name

Turdus philomelos

Bird Family

Thrushes

Sparrowhawk

Irish Name

Spioróg

Scientific name

Accipiter nisus

Bird Family

Raptors

Spotted Flycatcher

Irish Name

Cuilire liath

Scientific name

Musciapa striata

Bird Family

Flycatchers (chats)

Starling

Irish Name

Druid

Scientific name

Sturnus vulgaris

Bird Family

Starling

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