FAQs

I have found a pearl mussel, what should I do?

I have found a pearl mussel, what should I do?

Finding a pearl mussel is great. You may or may not be aware they are endangered in Ireland and almost extinct across Europe.  The best people to give information about this would be your local National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) conservation ranger.

The NPWS in Ireland work with rare species and habitats and would be interested in your discovery.  NPWS and Coillte also work together on implementing measures to ensure forestry practices protect populations of freshwater pearl mussel.  You can find a list of NPWS conservation rangers located throughout the country on their website.