In 2025, the  Irish Peatland Conservation Council (IPCC) plan to carry out a habitat assessment and monitoring surveys for the Large Heath butterfly on Girley Bog. The four surveys will take place in June and July over the Large Heath’s flight period.

The Large Heath (Coenonympha tullia) is a peatland specialist butterfly and is under-recorded in Ireland. Its larval foodplant is Hare’s-tail Cottongrass, (and sometimes Common Cottongrass), while the main adult nectar source is Cross-leaved Heath. The Large Heath is listed as Vulnerable (VU) on the European and Irish Red List for Butterflies. Therefore, it is important that we understand its habitat and population numbers on the bog. Its occurrence on Girley Bog can also inform IPCCs future management of the site.

Two IPCC staff members will lead a free walk and talk on Girley Bog during Heritage Week 2025 with a final date set closer to the time. This will be shared online on heritageweek.ie events page and promoted through IPCC’s website and social media accounts. 

This walk will be family friendly and will explore the Large Heath butterfly and other biodiversity of Girley Bog. Participants will also hear about the results of the survey and how it was carried out as well as learning some identification skills for different peatland species. 

Details to follow.

Please note that the details of events listed above are provided by the relevant Local Authorities.