Corncrake numbers in the midlands are expected to rise this year for the first time since measures were introduced to protect their nest sites on the Shannon Callows. Birdwatch Ireland says it has counted 54 singing males since mid-May and it is confident of finding more.
The increase is believed to be due to the success of the Corncrake Grant Scheme, which aims to protect nest sites from destruction caused by early mowing.
More than 130 farmers on the callows are already in the scheme, which pays £32 per acre to delay mowing until August 1st if they have corncrakes on their land, and a further £8 per acre for using a "corncrake-friendly" mowing technique.
The grant scheme now operates in the Shannon Callows, Donegal and Mayo. The closing date for entry to the scheme is July 1st.