Cork’s ‘bird whisperer’ Seán Ronayne says it’s not too late to save endangered species
It’s not too late to save our endangered birds.
A major ocean conference is landing in Cork next month, and it’s shining a spotlight on something pretty important: the future of Ireland’s wildlife — and whether we’re doing enough to protect it.
Taking place at City Hall on June 3rd, the Fair Seas World Ocean Week Conference will bring together everyone from ocean advocates and fishermen to government and industry leaders, all with one goal — figuring out what happens next for Ireland’s marine protection plans.
One of the standout speakers? Cork native and all-round bird legend Seán Ronayne.
The ornithologist, wildlife sound recordist and environmental activist has been on a mission since 2021 to record the sound of every bird species in Ireland. He’s also created a special coastal soundscape that’ll be played at the conference, giving attendees a proper listen to what’s at stake.
His message is simple: it’s not too late to secure the future of Ireland’s endangered species — but action is needed.
What are MPAs and why do we need them?
Right now, Ireland has committed to protecting 30% of its seas by 2030, but less than 10% is currently covered — and even then, many of those areas don’t have proper protections in place.
That’s where Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) come in — designated zones meant to protect habitats and marine life from harmful activity. Long-awaited legislation to properly support these is expected to land this summer, and this conference is all about pushing that conversation forward.
So yeah — big discussions, big decisions, and a reminder that what happens next for Ireland’s seas is still very much up in the air.
“We know everything is in stark decline.” says Séan.
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“We’re seeing whales moving further north and the numbers of wading birds on our beaches falling because of increased and often unabated human disturbance, for one. However, it’s not too late to act, it’s not all bad news and there is so much to fight for.
“We need to designate more space for nature, step back and allow the natural environment to bounce back. I see how nature can thrive in my own local area in Cuskinny near Cobh. This coastal nature reserve is a beacon of hope, it’s a riot of life with breeding mute swans, reed warblers and woodpeckers, and so much more.
“We need to nurture and expand these areas so that they can be found in every part of Ireland.”
A number of national and international experts and stakeholders will address the conference including Minna Epps, Global Ocean Policy Director at the International Union for Conservation of Nature, Belinda Bramley, Co-founder Director of the Protected Areas Foundation and Stakeholder Engagement Co-Lead for MPA Europe Project and Adriano Quintela, PhD, Marine Spatial Planning Specialist, Blue Azores & Oceano Azul Foundation.
Registration is now open with ticket prices starting from €75 for students, civil society and environmental non-governmental organisations. To register visit fairseas.ie.
