Anyone growing up in the rugged splendour of the Dingle Peninsula must surely be moulded and inspired by such surroundings, as the late footballer and native son, Paidí Ó Sé, often opined.

Warnings about dangers posed to Irish wildlife by non-native species — most recently highlighted by the reports on the presence of the South American rodent, coypus, in Cork — continue to be realised, writes Donal Hickey.

Is this a new trend? asks Donal Hickey. 

Numbers of red deer in the two main herds in the lowland areas of Killarney National Park are now believed to be higher than ever, writes Donal Hickey. 

While nesting birds and their chicks are the main victims of illegal gorse fires that have again plagued the country this year, plants and other animals that are often forgotten about are also being badly hit, writes Donal Hickey. 

May is many people’s favourite month, as we witness nature and new life burst forth in all their glory, writes Donal Hickey.

The life story of the salmon from its birth in an upland stream, in Ireland, to its Atlantic voyage of several thousand kilometres continues to fascinate.

DESPITE the downbeat and often valid warnings about the state of the Irish environment and wildlife, lots of positive things are going on, writes Donal Hickey.

Take a stroll through Ireland’s majestic gardens with Donal Hickey.

Lengthening days and warmer temperatures, up to 17C at times, are all helping nature to emerge from a long winter sleep, writes Donal Hickey