Kildare celebrates Biodiversity Week 2025

BIODIVERSITY Week is here in Kildare and brings with it a range of events which aims to raise awareness on the importance of biodiversity and to celebrate its value to local, national and international communities.

In Kildare, we are blessed with wonderful rivers, woodlands and boglands which are home to very important species of plants and animals. 

This is why, in the month of May with plants in full bloom, it is important to invite people into their local habitats to learn about them during Biodiversity Week.

This initiative is part of a national effort led by the Irish Environmental Network, to encourage people to connect with their local biodiversity. 

It also coincides with the United Nations International Day for Biological Diversity on May 22.

Speaking at the launch, cathaoirleach of Kildare County Council Kevin Duffy said: “It is great to see biodiversity being celebrated by communities across Kildare.

"Nature plays a key, and often over-looked role in our day-to-day lives. It is important that we acknowledge and celebrate it and all it does for us; from providing the food that we eat, to the clothes on our backs, and protecting us from extreme weather events and mitigating against further climate change. 

“Biodiversity Week is a fantastic opportunity to embrace and celebrate Kildare’s nature, wildlife, and beautiful natural landscapes.” 

Dr Meabh Boylan, biodiversity officer, Kildare County Council added: “Being out of doors in nature, is known to be important for our health and well-being. Having support to interpret what we are seeing, hearing and experiencing is an invaluable opportunity to learn, and to really understand the importance of the local plants and animals, and how they support us daily.

"It is fantastic to see so many events being organised across the county by local groups and individuals.

"We are very lucky in County Kildare to have such knowledgeable and generous nature enthusiasts, professionals, and local people who are dedicated to sharing their love of wildlife and nature.” 

Kildare folk are invited to explore and enjoy nature and the wildlife of County Kildare during the dedicated week between 17-25 May.

The week kicks off with a Peatlands Immersive Installation at Naas Library and Cultural Centre, a Lodge Bog Biodiversity Walk from the Bog of Allen Nature Centre, and a Hedgerow and Small Holding Walk and Talk in Celbridge.

Also on offer is a wonderful selection of experiences that cater to all age groups, including a butterfly walk in Lullymore, a series of bat walks in different locations across the county, a scenic canal bike ride in Naas, and countywide biodiversity information talks, among many other fantastic activities.

The full event booklet for is available on the Kildare County Council website at: www.kildarecoco.ie/AllServices/Heritage/BiodiversityandNaturalHeritage/BiodiversityWeek/