National Parks and Wildlife Service pilot project to protect ground nesting birds from the threat of mink

Predation recognised as the biggest threat to ground nesting birds

Project to test new approach around Lough Ree, an important area for breeding wader birds

A pilot initiative to protect ground nesting birds from the threat of mink has been announced today by Minister of State for Nature, Heritage and Biodiversity, Christopher O’Sullivan TD. The Midlands Mink Eradication Programme is a collaboration between the Breeding Waders European Innovation Partnership (EIP) and the National Association of Regional Game Councils (NARGC) and is supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service.

Predators, including American Mink, pose the greatest threat to ground nesting birds such as

breeding waders, Red Grouse, Grey Partridge and Hen Harrier. American Mink is an invasive species and was recently approved for inclusion on the EU ‘Invasive alien species of Union Concern’. Updated EU Regulations will require Ireland to introduce new measures to remove mink from Ireland.

Commenting on the new initiative, Minister O’Sullivan said:

“American Mink is an invasive species and a predator to our most vulnerable native birds. Mink also prey on other wildlife, including fish and small mammals. This programme to eradicate mink, which is supported by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, is based on science and best practice, including state of the art remote sensing technologies. It will use citizen science to inform our knowledge, expertise and response to invasive species across the island of Ireland.”

“Invasive species such as mink are challenging to manage as they expand rapidly in our landscapes. Members of the public, and organisations such as the NARGC have an essential role to play in helping us to prevent and tackle their spread.”

The programme aims to eradicate mink from the pilot area over a period of three and a half years. It will be delivered through a structured, trained and co-ordinated volunteer network. All volunteers will be professionally trained in identifying and trapping mink, and humane dispatch. Techniques used by the programme will ensure high standards of compliance with animal welfare legislation.

Owen Murphy, Programme Manager with the Breeding Waders European Innovation Partnership (EIP) said:

“In our efforts to protect ground nesting birds, the Breeding Waders EIP has developed deep understanding of mink control, modern techniques, data collection and analysis. A specialist mink detection dog will help to locate mink and volunteer teams will then set traps in the identified areas. This pilot programme provides a great opportunity for us to tap into the NARGC’s extensive network of volunteers and to finally bring this invasive species under control.”

Dan Curley, Chair of the National Association of Regional Game Councils said:

“The NARGC are delighted to be involved with the NPWS and the Breeding Waders EIP in delivering this exciting pilot programme, by using our clubs and members, and the local community in the pilot area. Mink are a serious threat to ground nesting birds, severely impacting on their breeding success. Collaboration and local engagement are key to any successful wildlife project, and we look forward to being able to assist the Wader EIP in this aspect of their overall project.”

The programme has also developed links with the National Biodiversity Data Centre and the Shared Island Biosecurity and Invasive Species Initiative. This collaboration will strengthen the knowledge and expertise around invasive species control on an all-island basis.

Niall Ó Donnchú, Director General with the National Parks and Wildlife Service said:

“If we are to tackle the threat of invasive species then we must try new approaches. International evidence shows that this approach has been effective in regions in England and Scotland and it is also extremely cost effective. NPWS is keen to test it in Ireland and learn more from this experience. We look forward to supporting the Breeding Waders EIP and the NARGC and helping to protect our precious ground nesting birds.”