Free workshop on butterfly identification and surveying techniques

If you are not sure about the difference between peacocks and tortoise shells, and you would like to, a free workshop on butterfly identification and surveying techniques will interest you.

Westmeath heritage officer Melanie McQuade said: "Butterflies are a real sign of summer and they are interesting creatures. Some species fly to Ireland from as far away as Africa and may rely on a particular plant to complete their lifecyles.

"We have 34 species of butterfly in Ireland, one of which – the Marsh Fritillary – is a protected species.

"If you would like to learn more about butterflies and how to identify different species, come along to a free workshop, on Saturday, 25 June at 10am."

The workshop is being delivered by ecologist Alan Lauder and entails a short tutorial in Castlepollard Library followed by a practical demonstration at nearby Coolure Demesne.

Participants will learn how to identify different species of butterfly, how to log sightings with the National Biodiversity Data Centre and how to get involved in butterfly monitoring schemes collecting valuable data on butterflies in Westmeath.

This workshop on Butterfly identification and introduction to surveying is being offered by Westmeath County Council with the support of the Local Biodiversity Action Fund, administered by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

For further details contact: Westmeath Heritage Officer: heritage@westmeathcoco.ie / 087-6074496.