MICRO PUBLIC SPACE ON WOLFE TONE STREET
What I would describe as a micro public space on Wolfe Tone Street, Wolfe Tone Crescent, features tiles showcasing Irish birds. These beautiful bird images are the work of renowned Irish bird artist Killian Mullarney. The installation is a collaboration between MCD Landscaping and Dublin City Council’s Parks & Landscape Services, enhancing the area and creating an outdoor gallery for the community.
Delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, this landscape refurbishment project revitalises Wolfe Tone Street, providing residents and visitors a unique space to enjoy art and nature. The space is at the entrance to Wolfe Tone Court, a public housing complex managed by Dublin City Council, has been a vital part of the community for many years, providing housing for families and individuals in need.
KILLIAN MULLARNEY: A CELEBRATED IRISH ORNITHOLOGIST AND BIRD ARTIST
Killian Mullarney is a highly acclaimed Irish ornithologist, bird artist, and bird tour leader. He is considered one of the most accomplished bird artists of our time, specialising in field guide illustrations and plate designs.
His artwork is featured in many renowned bird guides, most notably the Collins Bird Guide, where he has been involved since its inception. His detailed and accurate illustrations have helped countless birdwatchers identify and appreciate different species. He also designed a series of Irish definitive stamps for An Post (the Irish postal service) illustrating Irish birds, issued between 1997 and 2004.
Mullarney has co-authored influential books on bird identification, including “The New Approach to Bird Identification.” He is also a sought-after consultant for bird identification and has contributed to numerous birding journals and magazines. As an experienced birdwatcher, Mullarney leads bird tours worldwide, sharing his expertise and passion for birds with enthusiasts.
Mullarney’s dedication to bird conservation and his exceptional talent have earned him a prominent place in the world of ornithology and bird art. His work continues to inspire and educate birdwatchers of all levels, and his contribution to the field is immeasurable.
BIRDS NATIVE TO IRELAND
Ireland, being an island, has a unique bird population that differs from its closest neighbour, Great Britain. There are over 450 species on the Irish list, but many are rare, vagrant, or migratory birds.
Here are a few examples of birds native to Ireland:
Eurasian Jay (Garrulus glandarius hibernicus)
Coal Tit (Periparus ater hibernicus)
Red Grouse (Lagopus lagopus hibernicus)
Chough (Pyrrhocorax pyrrhocorax)
Corncrake (Crex crex)
Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus)
These are just a few examples of the diverse birdlife found in Ireland. The mild climate and varied habitats of Ireland provide a haven for a wide range of bird species throughout the year.