Irish Protected Species Legislation

Wildlife Acts 1976-2012

Mammals, Amphibians & Reptiles

Some examples: Pygmy Shrew, Stoat, Red Squirrel, Otter, Pine Marten, Badger, Hares, all Bat and Deer species, the Natterjack Toad and Common Newt.

All

Birds

Almost all resident wild birds, their nests and eggs are protected under the Act.

Invertebrates

Freshwater White-clawed Crayfish, the Freshwater Pearl Mussel and the Kerry Slug are protected under the Act.

Plants

Unlawful to pick, uproot or willingly damage and destroy the habitat or a species listed in the Act. Removal of trees and hedgerows may not take place between 1st March and 31st August.

Overview

The Wildlife Act is the principle mechanism for the legislative protection of wildlife in Ireland. It outlines strict protection for species that have significant conservation value. In summary, the Act protects species from injury, disturbance and damage to breeding and resting sites. All species listed in the Act must therefore be a material consideration in the planning process.

Flora Protection Order 2015

Vascular Plants & Ferns

Mosses

Liverworts

Stoneworts

Overview

The Flora Protection Order makes it illegal to cut, uproot or damage a listed species in any way. It is illegal to alter, damage or interfere in any way with their habitats. This protection applies wherever the plants are found.

EC Habitats Directive Regulations 2011

Bird Species Protected within Special Protection Areas.

Listed as rare or vulnerable species.

162

Special Protection Areas

These sites have been designated to safeguard sites important for breeding, feeding, roosting and wintering birds.

Animal & Plant Species Protected within Special Areas of Conservation.

Some species are also protected wherever they occur and not exclusively in designated sites.

421

Special Areas of Conservation

These sites have been designated to safeguard sites important for rare or vulnerable species and priority habitats.

Overview

The European Communities (Habitats Directive) Regulations transposes into law two Directives: the Birds Directive (1979) and the Habitats Directive (1992). These statutory instruments protect species and priority habitats considered to be of European interest. The Directives led to a network of designated sites (Natura 2000). Any plan or project potentially impacting a European designated site require an Appropriate Assessment.