Veon ornithologists and ecologists are currently overseeing the monitoring of Whooper Swans (Cygnus cygnus) in Longford this week to assess any potential disturbance.
The Whooper Swan, designated as an Annex I species under the EU Birds Directive, is one of two migratory swan species that visit Ireland during winter. The other is the Bewick’s Swan (C. columbianus bewickii), originating from northern Russia and wintering in north-west Europe.
Both species are included in Annex I of the EU Birds Directive (2009/147/EC), which mandates special conservation measures, including the possible establishment of Special Protection Areas (SPAs). The Whooper Swan holds special conservation significance across 21 SPAs in Ireland and three in the north of Ireland, with Lough Foyle being among the designated areas.
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