Bird Survey at Kilbogget Wetland

Following an oil spill at Kilbogget Wetland earlier this Summer, Dún Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council (DLR) commissioned a local ornithologist to carry out a bird survey on 5th September 2025. The purpose of the survey was to assess the condition of waterbirds in the area and to look for any signs of illness or pollution-related stress.

Birds Observed

During the survey, the following waterbird species were recorded:

• 11 Mallards (7 males, 4 females)
• 9 Moorhens (5 adults, 4 juveniles)
• 1 Kingfisher (female, observed at the south end)
• 4 Grey Herons (2 adults, 2 immature birds)
• 1 Water Rail (heard calling from the south end, but not seen)

The Water Rail, although not seen, was heard calling—a sign of its presence in the habitat.

Health and Environmental Observations

The ornithologist noted that all visible birds appeared to be in good health. Their plumage, alertness, eye condition, activity levels and preening rates were all within normal ranges.  Nothing visually to suggest they were suffering from illness/pollution.