Discover the beauty of nature: Celebrate Biodiversity Week with exciting events at OPW locations nationwide

The Office of Public Works (OPW) is delighted to announce a series of fun and educational events taking place in OPW locations nationwide to celebrate National Biodiversity Week.

Nature enthusiasts, families and people young and old will find plenty to enjoy across the week, with a range of workshops, tours, trails and other fun activities on offer. Other events include in depth talks on biodiversity and conservation by leading experts.

Altamont Gardens, Co. Carlow is hosting free guided walks, bat walks and Dawn Chorus guided walks for Biodiversity week. Visitors can enjoy informative talks on local wildlife and ecosystems.

Discover the fascinating world of bats at Emo Court and Estate. Ecologist Pat Moran will give a walk and talk tour exploring the species that call Emo Court home and learn about their vital role in the ecosystem.

Minister of State with Responsibility for the Office of Public Works, Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, said: “I am delighted to welcome the arrival of National Biodiversity Week at OPW locations nationwide. This is a fantastic opportunity for people of all ages to come together and learn about the diverse plant and animal species that inhabit our heritage sites. We are proud to showcase our rich natural heritage and welcome visitors of all ages to join us for Biodiversity Week."

From ponding dipping which involves exploring the lake, pond and stream habitats to attending bird and insect safari’s, John F. Kennedy Arboretum has something for everyone to enjoy. Naturalist and author Glynn Anderson, will take visitors on a Dawn Chorus walk to listen to the woods awaken and learn how to identify bird species at the arboretum. Or join entomologist, Owen Beckett, from the National Biodiversity Centre, on a guided walk exploring some of our most conspicuous pollinators and explaining how we overlook so many of the species of bee that do not live in hives. In collaboration with Bird Watch Ireland, visitors to Kilkenny Castle can enjoy Dusk Chorus event.

The National Botanic Garden of Ireland, Glasnevin and Kilmacurragh are hosting a variety of events to celebrate Biodiversity week. Tours, walk and talks and workshops are on offer at both locations. At the National Botanic Garden of Ireland, Glasnevin, enjoy the 100 years of Biodiversity Discovery in Ireland talk and learn how our understanding of Ireland’s flora and fauna has changed over the last century. Visitors can join Eric Dempsey and Lorcán Scott for a magical night at the National Botanic Gardens, Kilmacurragh to learn how to set up an all-night moth trap or to learn about the diversity of bat species resident in Kilmacurragh and the importance of insect life to sustain them.

At Parkes Castle, Co. Leitrim, Dr. Dolores Byrne, botanist and ecologist, will deliver a family friendly exploration of the biodiversity around the castle and along the lakeshore at Lough Gill. Families will have the opportunity to look at plants and animals up close under a microscope. Parke’s Castle will also host a mini bio-blitz. Accompanied by Michael Bell, Nature Learn, and learn how to identify local species and record your findings with the National Biodiversity Data Centre.

Portumna Castle and Gardens is offering free guided tours of the walled kitchen gardens. Lynn O’Keeffe, OPW Craft Gardener and Biodiversity Champion, will highlight the biodiversity in the garden and share tips on how to welcome wildlife into your own garden and encourage common birds into garden by creating a suitable habitat.

For those looking to celebrate Biodiversity Week through a virtual lens, check out the stunning wildlife photography captured by OPW staff, showcasing nature’s beauty across the country – ‘Through the Green Lens: Celebrating Biodiversity’ https://visit.virtualartgallery.com/green-lens.

Or test your knowledge and take our ‘Wild About Biodiversity Quiz’ see link.

For more information on specific events happening at OPW heritage locations for National Biodiversity Week check out www.heritageireland.ie.

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For more information about the events or to arrange an interview please contact the OPW Press Office at pressoffice@opw.ie.

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About National Biodiversity Week

National Biodiversity Week is organised by the Irish Environmental Network (IEN), with support funding from the National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS). Events are run by IEN member groups, as well as by Heritage & Biodiversity Officers and other local groups.