Waterford has a wide variety of landscapes, characterised by the River Suir, the Comeragh Mountains, several south-flowing river systems and a rugged coastline with many coves and beaches.
Natural Heritage
The diversity of landscapes and natural heritage within the county enables views and prospects of areas of natural beauty from many public roads.
There are a number of diverse habitats found in Waterford. Some habitats are of national importance and are recognised through designation as Natural Heritage Areas or proposed Natural Heritage Areas (pNHAs). Other habitats are of European Importance and are designated Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) for their habitat or plant/animal species value or Special Protection Areas (SPAs) for birdlife.
In addition to designated sites there are many other important sites for wildlife such as wetlands, woodlands, and hedgerows. A number of mammals and fish species protected under European legislation occur in Waterford rivers and coastal areas. These include Salmon, Lamprey, Shad, Freshwater Pearl Mussel, White-Clawed Crayfish, Otter, Seals, Whales and Dolphins.
Find out more on Waterford's wildlife here Natural Heritage of TramoreWaterford has a natural and rich heritage consisting of plants, animals and their habitats. If you spot anything unusual, please contact the Heritage Officer.
What laws protect our Natural Heritage?
The EU Birds and Habitats Regulations 2011 and the Wildlife Act 1976 as amended in 2000, guide the protection for Ireland’s nature and wildlife and is the remit of the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Many sites are protected for nature conservation and in Waterford we have nine Special Areas of Conservation – SACs and six Special Protection Areas -SPAs.
Find out more hereActivities in these sites may require consent from either Waterford City and County Council if they are defined as Development under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) or from the National Parks and Wildlife Service if they are defined as activities requiring consent.
Activities Requiring ConsentOther sites protected for their nature and wildlife value include Proposed Natural Heritage Areas and wetlands of Local Biodiversity Interest. These are listed in the Waterford City and County Development Plan 2022-2028.
Wildlife sightings?
The National Biodiversity Data Centre is the national repository for biological records in Ireland. You can contribute to the national dataset by submitting your wildlife observations.
Submit Sightings HereUseful Contacts and Resources
Bats
What to do if you find an injured bat? How to ensure your lighting scheme doesn’t interfere with bat activity? Getting involved in surveying bats?
Contact Bat Conservation IrelandBirds
Conservation measures to help Barn Owls and Swifts, contribute to local bird surveys.
Contact Bird Watch IrelandTrees
Tree felling requires a felling licence from the Forest Service.
Trees are protected by a Tree Preservation Order under the Planning and Development Act 2000 (as amended) and listed in the Waterford City and County Development Plan 2022-2028.
Apply for LicenceWhat funding schemes are available to support projects on Nature and Wildlife?
Local Biodiversity Action Plan Fund
Administered by the National Parks and Wildlife Service. Contact your local heritage officer for details.
Heritage Council Community Heritage Grant scheme
Community Foundation Ireland
Waterford Area Leader Partnership
Climate Action Fund
Projects
Nature and Wildlife Projects for 2023 include a Brent Geese Tagging Project in Dungarvan, Barn Owl Survey of Co. Waterford, Ardmore Head SAC Grazing Project and Control of Cord Grass on Tramore Back Strand.
