Schoolboy Dylan discovers new species for County Limerick!

CAHERELLY National School has a budding David Attenborough on its hands as young Dylan Halpin discovered a new species for County Limerick.

The pupils of third and fourth class, along with their teacher Darragh Keane; Kasia Tyller, SNA and Niamh McGuinness, principal headed off on a field trip to Lough Gur – not realising the excitement that was to come!

It was part funded by Heritage in Schools and led by the renowned Geoff Hunt, wildlife expert with the Heritage Council. Mr Hunt has worked with the pupils of the school for many years, said Ms McGuinness.

“The children arrived in their wellies and rain gear, brandishing their nets all ready for an expedition. Not long into their pond dipping there was a rare find by Dylan Halpin. Geoff was amazed and excited at the find when Dylan found it in his net and showed him. It was a water stick insect. The class all looked at it under a microscope in the classroom afterwards with Mr Hunt and Mr Keane. Later, it was released back into its natural habitat."

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“It just goes to show that you do not have to be an expert to find a new species for County Limerick! The water stick insect has been spreading across England and Wales and now Ireland evidently. It is an underwater predator and uses its front legs to catch its prey. Its tail acts as a snorkel so that it can breathe under water for long periods. It hides in dense water weeds and waits ready to ambush its victim,” said Ms McGuinness.

The National Biodiversity Data Centre show four records of the water stick insect in Wexford, Kerry and now Lough Gur thanks to young Dylan.

Ms McGuinness said with the school’s proximity and close ties to Lough Gur they often use the lake for educational and activity based trips.

“The previous week fifth and sixth classes were there on a history trip, visiting the heritage centre and carraig aille fort. Pupils have kayaked on the lake in the recent past too with Kilfinane Outdoor Education Centre. How lucky they are to have such a fabulous amenity right on their doorstep!”