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07/06/2018
Two Red Squirrels Released At Silent Valley Mountain Park
Two female red squirrels have been released at Silent Valley Mountain Park, Belfast Zoo has confirmed.
The site was selected as part of a nation-wide scheme to enhance the population of the threatened species.
Zoo manager, Alyn Cairns, said: "Belfast Zoo first became home to red squirrels in 2012 when three animals arrived from the Glens of Antrim. The original aim of our red squirrel nook was predominantly education and interaction.
"However, the hope was that the squirrels would be content in the nook to breed and, with this in mind, release arrangements were developed by Belfast Zoo, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the Northern Ireland Squirrel Forum (NISF). Since the arrival of our original trio, we have welcomed numerous kittens and have celebrated several successful re-introductions to protected areas in Northern Ireland.
"It is easy to look at the plight of the world's wildlife and to feel like these problems are a world away from our own daily lives. However, the reality is that Northern Ireland's very own species are facing increasing threats and the red squirrel is the perfect example of this. Here at Belfast Zoo we are committed to playing a leading role in wildlife conservation including wildlife on our own doorstep. The success of the latest release is the culmination of planning and dedication from all parties.
"It is extremely encouraging that, since the inception of the zoo's squirrel nook, Belfast Zoo born squirrels have not only supported existing populations in Northern Ireland but have also been imperative in developing new habitats and populations. While this is the first release at Silent Valley we are optimistic that this will be the first of many."
(CD/LM)
The site was selected as part of a nation-wide scheme to enhance the population of the threatened species.
Zoo manager, Alyn Cairns, said: "Belfast Zoo first became home to red squirrels in 2012 when three animals arrived from the Glens of Antrim. The original aim of our red squirrel nook was predominantly education and interaction.
"However, the hope was that the squirrels would be content in the nook to breed and, with this in mind, release arrangements were developed by Belfast Zoo, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency and the Northern Ireland Squirrel Forum (NISF). Since the arrival of our original trio, we have welcomed numerous kittens and have celebrated several successful re-introductions to protected areas in Northern Ireland.
"It is easy to look at the plight of the world's wildlife and to feel like these problems are a world away from our own daily lives. However, the reality is that Northern Ireland's very own species are facing increasing threats and the red squirrel is the perfect example of this. Here at Belfast Zoo we are committed to playing a leading role in wildlife conservation including wildlife on our own doorstep. The success of the latest release is the culmination of planning and dedication from all parties.
"It is extremely encouraging that, since the inception of the zoo's squirrel nook, Belfast Zoo born squirrels have not only supported existing populations in Northern Ireland but have also been imperative in developing new habitats and populations. While this is the first release at Silent Valley we are optimistic that this will be the first of many."
(CD/LM)
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Belfast Zoo reopens farm area
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Belfast Zoo has reopened the rare breeds farm area for the bank holiday weekend after a prolonged period of closure. The zoo farm area, particularly popular with younger visitors, has been closed as part of the precautions taken at the zoo since the foot-and-mouth outbreak in February.
11 June 2018
Monkey 'Clipped By Car' In North Belfast Dies
A male spider monkey, which escaped from Belfast Zoo on Saturday, 09 June, has died after being struck by a car. He was "clipped by a car" on the M2 in north Belfast. The monkey was being tracked by zoo keepers. A spokesperson said: "We are currently investigating how the escape occurred from the monkey island on which the animals are kept.
Monkey 'Clipped By Car' In North Belfast Dies
A male spider monkey, which escaped from Belfast Zoo on Saturday, 09 June, has died after being struck by a car. He was "clipped by a car" on the M2 in north Belfast. The monkey was being tracked by zoo keepers. A spokesperson said: "We are currently investigating how the escape occurred from the monkey island on which the animals are kept.
04 April 2011
Red Squirrel Faces New Threat
Northern Ireland's already dwindling red squirrel population was dealt another blow with the recent discovery of a fatal squirrel disease. The infected red squirrels were first spotted by members of the Tollymore Red Squirrel Group. This marks the first recorded instance of a red squirrel dying from this disease.
Red Squirrel Faces New Threat
Northern Ireland's already dwindling red squirrel population was dealt another blow with the recent discovery of a fatal squirrel disease. The infected red squirrels were first spotted by members of the Tollymore Red Squirrel Group. This marks the first recorded instance of a red squirrel dying from this disease.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.
