Backyard Biodiversity

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is running the ‘Backyard Biodiversity’ project to record distinctive species commonly found in gardens. The project seeks to obtain sightings of 20 recognisable species that can be found in urban and rural gardens, and is focused on those people who are new to biodiversity recording.

This Heritage Week we want you to look for and submit sightings of any of the below 20 species. The species chosen are a mix of vertebrates and invertebrates, from different taxonomic groups. Each of the species can be relatively easily identified, provided that key identification features are carefully noted. All records can be submitted through our dedicated online recording form: Backyard Biodiversity Recording Form 

Common Frog – Oisín Duffy

7-Spot Ladybird - Oisín Duffy

7-Spot Ladybird – Oisín Duffy

What to do if you spot one of our list of 20 species?

  1. Get in for a closer look – make sure you can accurately identify the species
  2. Take a picture – this is useful for verification
  3. Ask for help on-line, if you need it or check out our Backyard Biodiversity Spotter Sheets below
  4. Visit species.biodiversityireland.ie for full species profiles on each of our chosen species
  5. Visit records.biodiversityireland.ie to submit your records

Swallow – Oisín Duffy

Check out the 20 chosen species below:

We are inviting everyone to submit sightings of any of 20 species that we know commonly occur in gardens. The species chosen are a mix of vertebrates and invertebrates, from different taxonomic groups.

Each of the species can be relatively easily identified, provided that key identification features are carefully noted.

Records by Species

Records by County

Records by Species

Recording Impact

  • Contact Us
  • +353 51 306 240
  • National Biodiversity Data Centre
    Beechfield House,
    Waterford Institute of Technology West Campus,
    Carriganore,
    Co. Waterford,
    Ireland.
    X91 PE03

Download our free smartphone app for recording in the field
Android App
Apple App

The National Biodiversity Data Centre is a Company Limited by Guarantee. Register Number: 730718.

 

  • Privacy
We made this!
  • Home
  • About
    • Global Biodiversity Information Facility
      • Ireland’s GBIF profile
      • The GBIF Network
      • Latest news at GBIF
      • GBIF Science Review
    • Strategic Objectives
  • Monitoring & tracking change
  • Assisting conservation
  • Ireland’s Biodiversity Learning Platform
  • Publications
  • Biodiversity Ireland’s Top 10
  • Videos
  • Shop
  • News and Events
    • Distinguished Recorder Award
We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking “Accept”, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. However you may visit Cookie Settings to provide a controlled consent. You can view our privacy policy here.
Cookie settingsACCEPT
Privacy & Cookies Policy

Privacy Overview

This website uses cookies to improve your experience while you navigate through the website. Out of these cookies, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may have an effect on your browsing experience.
Necessary
Always Enabled
Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information.
Non Necessary
Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website.
Save & Accept