Horizons

The survival of native plants and animals in Britain is being threatened by nearly 80 non-native or alien species, according to a new report by the Scottish National Heritage.

The study states that 76 alien species, including the American mink, the ruddy duck, sika deer, rhododendrons and New Zealand flatworm, are causing significant ecological damage. The most damaging species out-compete for food, destroy local vegetation, breed with domestic species and introduce new diseases.

Dr Tom Hayden, senior lecturer at the Department of Zoology, University College Dublin, says all of the above-mentioned alien species are also in Ireland, with the exception of the ruddy duck. "You could also add the grey squirrel and the bank vole to that list. As the grey squirrel (which originated in deciduous woodlands in the United States) population increases, the red squirrel population declines (and moves more into the coniferous woodland), although there is some control being done of the grey squirrel at the moment."

Hayden says the bank vole was introduced here by accident on the Shannon Estuary and is now present in counties Kerry, Cork, Waterford and Clare. Its biggest impact is on young tree plantations, as it nibbles at the bark, causing trees to die. However, he says that the bank vole may have a positive effect on our birds of prey by providing them with an extra food source.

Cross-breeding between sika deer and red deer is also a concern in Ireland. The Scottish National Heritage report is the first in a series of studies being carried out across Britain.

The Organic Centre in Rossinver, Co Leitrim, is hosting an environmental day tomorrow. The main focus will be on waste management and recycling. Michelle Hallahan, from the Environmental Science Association of Ireland, will assess the problem and highlight possible solutions. Local environmental and ecological groups have also been invited to put forward their arguments. The programme begins at 11 a. m. Admission £3. Tel: 072 54338 or see www.theorganiccentre.ie for more details.

Native Irish woodlands and their conservation is the theme of an illustrated talk and public meeting at the Headfort Arms Hotel in Kells, Co Meath, on Tuesday at 7.30 p.m. Organised by Forest Friends Ireland, this is the second in a series of events planned by the voluntary group. Forest Friends Ireland can be contacted on 01 8325415.

Suburban Jungle is the title of a wildlife art competition for four to 14-year-olds, run by the National Museum of Ireland. The aim is to encourage children to observe wildlife wherever they are - in gardens, parks and on the beach. The idea is to remind children that they don't have to go to the country to see birds, insects and small animals such as hedgehogs and field mice. There are three age groups for entries (four to seven, eight to 11 and 12 to 14 years) and £100 will be awarded to the winner of each category. The closing date is October 1st. For entry forms, contact the Education and Outreach Department, National Museum, Kildare St, Dublin 2. Tel: 01 6777444 or e-mail bookings@museum.ie

Also, ask about the free talks, tours and trails on Sundays at 3 p.m. in the National Museum throughout the summer.

The Achill Field School is feeling the impact of the foot-and-mouth crisis with reduced booking for their summer courses this year. Now affiliated to the National University of Ireland at Galway, the summer field courses can serve as modules in degree courses on archaeology, anthropology and geography. Some places remain throughout August. Courses cost £325 per week, which includes accommodation and half-board.

Introductory weekend courses for the archaeological enthusiast are a new departure this year. These courses run on the weekends from August 24th to September 16th. Subjects covered include excavation and survey techniques, archaeological geophysics and environmental archaeology. They cost £160 per weekend, which includes accommodation and half-board. Tel: 098 43564 for more details or see www.achill-fieldschool.com

Web world

www.irishbeekeeping.ie

As the annual gathering of Irish beekeepers goes ahead next week in Gormanstown, Co Meath, would-be beekeepers can whet their appetites for this specialist pursuit on this website. The site is informative and easy to move around, with links to beekeeping associations around the world.

Also, find out what to do if you see a swarm of bees and how to source local honey.