People will have the chance to see a rare freshwater pearl mussel, a long-eared owl and learn more about local wildlife at a biodiversity event in Clonea Power next week.
“Fun By The Clodiagh” takes place on Thursday, June 11th, and marks the culmination of a year-long biodiversity survey carried out in the area by ecologist Kevin Collins.
The survey, funded by Community Foundation Ireland, documented a wide range of plants and animals in and around the village, including kestrels, stock doves, redwings, green-veined butterflies and the rare freshwater pearl mussel.
The event is being organised by the Clonea and Rathgormack Biodiversity Group, a volunteer-led organisation established last year with support from the Clonea Power Tidy Village Committee.
Mr Collins will be on hand to discuss his findings and recommendations aimed at helping local species thrive and encouraging wildlife, including otters, to expand their habitats along the River Clodiagh.
Visitors will have the opportunity to meet birds of prey and learn more about Ireland’s native raptors during a display by falconer Willie from Mayfield Birds of Prey. Attendees will hear about species found locally, including sparrowhawks, buzzards and peregrine falcons.
Clonea Power event:
Carrick-on-Suir Men’s Shed will host a bird box building demonstration, offering practical advice on the best types of bird boxes to build and where to place them to support local bird populations.
Paul Carroll from the Freshwater Pearl Mussel Project will showcase one of the river’s rarest inhabitants. The River Clodiagh is one of the last rivers in the east of the county to support the red-listed freshwater pearl mussel, a species capable of living for up to 140 years. There are estimated to be around 50 mussels remaining in the river. Mr Carroll will outline ongoing conservation and breeding efforts aimed at protecting the population.
A solar printing workshop led by Waterford artist and designer Cúan Cusack will give visitors the opportunity to create unique nature-inspired prints using sunlight and natural materials. All materials will be provided.
There will also be a biodiversity talk from Dr Catherine Keena, a farm biodiversity specialist with Teagasc. She will explain the importance of biodiversity, highlight native plants and animals found in the area, and discuss the habitats that support them, including hedgerows, grass margins, woodlands and waterways.
The free event begins at 11am beside the River Clodiagh in Clonea Power. It is supported by Community Foundation Ireland, the Local Authority Waters Programme and Clonea Power Tidy Village, with refreshments provided by Flahavan’s and Killowne Orchards. Organisers are encouraging attendees to bring their own cup to enjoy locally made elderflower cordial or juice.
