'An amazing and unique event': County Limerick's otter discovery day scoops heritage prize

ALTHOUGH over 2,500 events took place nationwide during the biggest National Heritage Week yet, a Limerick event celebrating otters and outdoor discovery stood out from the crowd.

Wild Child Day – All About Otters from the Maigue Rivers Trust took home the Wild Child Award at this year’s Heritage Week Awards.

This award recognises events that took place on Wild Child Day, August 23, 2025, and successfully encouraged children to get outdoors and explore the richness of natural heritage and biodiversity in their local area. The event was led by otter expert Albert Nolan at Lough Gur and included activities such as exploring otter ecology, tracking, and building holts, making it a fun-filled and educational day.

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Limerick hosted 49 events during National Heritage Week, highlighting the county’s major role in this year’s celebrations. The awards are run by The Heritage Council, which promotes awareness of the importance of Ireland’s heritage to communities across the island. The winners of the awards were announced at a ceremony on October 17 in Dublin.

Limerick City and County Council Heritage Officer, Tom O'Neill said:

“I am very proud to say that County Limerick has won a National Heritage Week Award. Wild Child Day- All about Otters from the Maigue Rivers Trust won the ‘Wild Child Award’ for County Limerick. It was an amazing and unique event that shined a light on our natural heritage and creativity. Congratulations on coming together to create such a memorable event.”