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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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03 October 2014
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Four red squirrels born at Belfast Zoo have been released into the wild at Glenarm estate in County Antrim. Zoo curator and chairperson of the Belfast Zoo native species group, Alyn Cairns, explained: "Here at the zoo, we care for and conserve a variety of endangered species from across the world.
Red Squirrels Released Into Wild
Four red squirrels born at Belfast Zoo have been released into the wild at Glenarm estate in County Antrim. Zoo curator and chairperson of the Belfast Zoo native species group, Alyn Cairns, explained: "Here at the zoo, we care for and conserve a variety of endangered species from across the world.
28 July 2017
Belfast Zoo 'Celebrating Conservation Success'
Belfast Zoo is "celebrating another conservation success" with the birth of five red squirrel kittens. The red squirrel, believed to have been native across Ireland for more than 10,000 years, is now said to be in "serious trouble" in Northern Ireland.
Belfast Zoo 'Celebrating Conservation Success'
Belfast Zoo is "celebrating another conservation success" with the birth of five red squirrel kittens. The red squirrel, believed to have been native across Ireland for more than 10,000 years, is now said to be in "serious trouble" in Northern Ireland.
11 January 2008
New Visitor Centre For Belfast Zoo
Construction has begun on a new, £600,000 state of the art visitor centre at Belfast Zoo. The new entrance pavilion will include a new souvenir shop, pay-booths and payment systems, a covered walkway for wet weather shelter and a tourist exhibition space focussing on native and non-native wildlife.
New Visitor Centre For Belfast Zoo
Construction has begun on a new, £600,000 state of the art visitor centre at Belfast Zoo. The new entrance pavilion will include a new souvenir shop, pay-booths and payment systems, a covered walkway for wet weather shelter and a tourist exhibition space focussing on native and non-native wildlife.
25 November 2024
Other News In Brief
DfC Launch Public Consultation On Gender Pay Gap A consultation on proposed changes to Section 19 of the Employment Act (Northern Ireland) relating to the requirements for employers to publish information on the pay of male and female employees has been launched by the Department for Communities.
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27 August 2001
Belfast Zoo reopens farm area
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.
Belfast Zoo reopens farm area
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.
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Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
