About this role
Deadline: Ongoing (the survey period ends September 30th).
We are seeking records of Peregrine Falcon, Sparrowhawk, Kestrel, Buzzard, Long-eared Owl and Barn Owl seen in Dublin City and what they were doing at the time of observation.
Tasks:
- Record raptor species (also known as birds of prey) observed in Dublin City
- Record the date and location of the sighting
- Record what activity the bird was undertaking at the time, e.g., perched, in flight, carrying prey
See the ‘Guide to Identifying Raptors’ here: https://birdwatchireland.ie/a-guide-to-identifying-raptors-dublin-city-raptor-survey/
Raptor populations are often under-recorded in Ireland due to their ecology. Several of these species, such as the Kestrel and Barn Owl, are red listed on the Birds of Conservation Concern in Ireland, meaning they are at risk of extinction in Ireland. Many of these species also depend on urban environments for feeding, nesting, and over-wintering. As urbanisation is increasing rapidly in Ireland, we need to better understand (a) our baseline population of raptors, and (b) how are they faring in an increasingly urbanised environment. This information will inform conservation measures for these species. Citizen scientists are key to this project, and your knowledge and sightings will make a significant contribution to our understanding of raptor populations and distribution in Dublin City.
The Dublin City Raptor Survey is coordinated by BirdWatch Ireland and part of a broader framework for improving biodiversity in Dublin City as part of the Dublin City Biodiversity Action Plan. It is supported by the National Biodiversity Data Centre.
- Develop or improve your raptor ID skills
- Help make a difference in your local community or wider area
- Improve your health and wellbeing
- Spend more time outdoors
- Ability to ID raptors by sight
- Ability to ID raptors by calls would be of benefit for this survey
- Binoculars (not strictly necessary but would be useful)
BirdWatch Ireland strives to be as inclusive as possible. If you have any additional needs and are unsure whether this role would be suitable for you, please do get in touch with the role coordinator.
Minimum time commitment: No minimum. Observations should be made between April and September.
Hours required: Volunteer can decide how many hours to contribute.
Suitable for those with basic English.
All ages welcome.
There are no selection criteria for this role, simply log your sightings. See ‘How to get involved’ below.
- An ID guide for raptors: https://birdwatchireland.ie/a-guide-to-identifying-raptors-dublin-city-raptor-survey/
- A workshop on raptor identification will be held in spring 2024 (details will be advertised on BirdWatch Ireland’s social media channels)
The survey takes place in Dublin City at any location of your choice. Hence, sites can be accessed by foot, bike, public transport, or car depending on how close the site is to you.
Log your raptor sightings here: Dublin City Raptor Survey
