Corncrake: red-listed bird returns to Rathlin Island
There has been a decline in the species in Northern Ireland in recent years
Last updated 18th Apr 2024
Conservationists revealed today (Thursday) that the endangered Corncrake was back again on Rathlin Island.
And they are hoping that is a turning point for the red-listed bird.
The RSPB NI said the elusive species, once widespread in Northern Ireland, have seen a decline in numbers in recent decades due to changes in agricultural practices.
However, thanks to the 'Giving Corncrake a Home' project the birds first returned to Rathlin in 2014.
Liam McFaul, RSPB NI Rathlin Reserves Warden, said, "The return of the Corncrake to Rathlin Island each year is evidence of the conservation efforts in the area.
"We have been working alongside RSPB staff and volunteers to create habitat for this species on Rathlin.
Without this help, this species would have faced extinction in Northern Ireland. Corncrake prefer to nest in cover, such as nettles. With the help of farmers and volunteers, we dig up nettle plants from the mainland and transport them to Rathlin to create ideal habitats for this species.”