Event Overview:
Celebrate Biodiversity Week 2025 by exploring the wonders of the night sky, the fascinating world of bats, and the important role biodiversity plays in our nocturnal environment. The evening will start with an indoor presentation at The Grainne Uaile followed by a Dark Sky Walk through the heart of Newport, including a stop at St. Patrick’s Church to view the award-winning Dark-Sky-Friendly retrofit lighting installed as part of our ongoing efforts to reduce light pollution in the area and protect our precious dark Skies.
Event Schedule:
8:30 PM – 9:30 PM: Indoor Presentations at The Grainne Uaile, Newport
- Welcome and Tea/Coffee (with thanks to the Irish Environmental Network and Dark Sky Ireland)
- Introduction to Dark Skies – Georgia MacMillan of Mayo Dark Sky Park & Dark Sky Ireland
- Tackling Light Pollution in Mayo – Sheila Murphy Mayo County Council Biodiversity Office
- Bats and Biodiversity – Mary Roberts of Mayo Bat Group
9:30 PM – 10:30 PM: Dark Sky Walk
- Start: We’ll gather for a brief introduction and begin our walk around Newport.
- St. Patrick’s Church: A special stop to view the innovative Dark-Sky-Friendly lighting retrofit, which has won accolades for reducing light pollution and preserving the natural nocturnal environment.
- Bat Listening: Along the walk, listen out for the sounds of local bat species, learn about their behaviour, and understand their role in the ecosystem.
- Stargazing (if conditions permit): Enjoy the spectacular dark skies of Mayo and get tips on stargazing from Dark Sky Ireland experts.
Finish by 10:30 PM
Why Attend?
- Learn About Bats: Discover the fascinating world of Ireland’s 9 bat species and how they contribute to maintaining biodiversity.
- Support Dark Sky Conservation: Understand the importance of dark skies for both wildlife and human well-being, and find out about Mayo’s journey towards becoming a designated Dark Sky County Reserve.
- Explore Biodiversity: Learn how our actions, like preserving natural corridors for wildlife and reducing light pollution, can protect and enhance biodiversity in our area.
- Stargazing and Bat Watching: Enjoy an interactive and family-friendly evening combining education, nature, and the beauty of the night sky.
Important Details:
- Registration Required. Places are limited, so please register early.
- This event is FREE and open to all.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
- All children must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
- Bright torches are discouraged to protect the night environment.
For more information, contact us at [email protected] or [email protected]
We look forward to seeing you there for an unforgettable evening under the stars! ????????????