Aquatic habitats in such poor condition even adaptable species like herons may struggle

Since the start of this millennium, Ireland has lost around half a million waterbirds — almost 40% of the total population

A grey heron bird with a twig in its beak flies to a nest on the island at Atlantic Pond at The Marina, Cork beside Páirc Uí Chaoimh. There is a heronry high in the trees at the pond. Picture: Larry Cummins 

Wherever there are fish, there will be herons.

Known also as corr réisc, and referred to as cranes in parts of the country, herons are Ireland’s tallest bird and a most elegant aquatic hunter. With a long shapely neck and lanky legs, solitary herons are often seen standing motionless by the water’s edge, waiting. Black head crest giving an air of exotic flamboyance, grey and white plumage blending with their watery hunting grounds — river, canal, pond, lake or coastal estuary.