Show Notes
The pygmy shrew is Ireland’s smallest mammal and, up until 2007, was the only shrew species found on the island. Fossil and molecular evidence suggest that the pygmy shrew likely arrived in Ireland from Britain, accidentally introduced by early human settlers.
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Out in the shallows of the coastline, on the sandy seabed, seagrass grows. Home to crabs, sea anemones and baby fish, seagrass meadows offer shelter for all forms of sea creatures, especially as stormy winter weather arrives. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Commonly found in mixed and ancient native woodlands near oak, birch, beech, and pine trees, thriving on damp, mossy, well-drained acid soils across various regions in Ireland, including southern, western, and eastern counties like Cork and Galway, See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Similar in size to a blackbird, the Fieldfare is a common and widespread winter visitor from October to March in Ireland. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Elm trees are special because of their majestic vase-shaped canopies, historical importance as town shade trees, and remarkable resilience against adversity. Written and presented by Anja Murray. (Right) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
"Blackwits" is the popular birding nickname for the Black-tailed Godwit (Limosa limosa), a striking and elegant large wading bird. Written and presented by Anja Murray. (Right) See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.