Rare animals and plants found in Clonea-Power during year long biodiversity survey

A year-long biodiversity survey of Clonea-Power by leading ecologist Kevin Collins has concluded.

During the survey, Keving documented a large variety of plants and animals in and around the village.

He has found some rare bird species including kestrels, stock doves and redwings, the freshwater pearl mussel and the green veined butterfly.

His report has some recommendations for support to ensure these species can continue to thrive in Clonea and encourage other species like otters living upriver to find suitable living conditions in and around the village.

Next week, village will be hosting an event organised by the Clonea and Rathgormack Biodiversity Group to share the findings of the survey and celebrate the village's thriving biodiversity.

Kevin will be available on the day to elaborate on his findings and answer any questions.

The free event will take place in the field alongside the river Clodiagh at 11am on Thursday June 11.

On the day there will be displays and talks by farm biodiversity specialist Dr. Catherine Keena, a long-eared owl display by Mayfield Birds of Prey, a solar printing art workshop and a bird box making demonstration with Carrick on Suir Men’s Shed.

There will also be an opportunity for attendees to see the rare freshwater pearl mussel with Paul Carroll from Friends of the Clodiagh.

The Clodiagh is one of the last rivers in the east of the county to have the red listed freshwater pearl mussel. They are capable of living up to 140 years of age, making them Ireland’s longest living animal. There are approximately 50 of these mussels left in the river Clodiagh. Paul is leading a mussel breeding program in Waterford that is aiming to maintain the population in the area and will share his work.

In the spirit of helping the environment, participants are asked to kindly bring their own cup if they wish to taste some locally made elderflower cordial or juice.