Ireland is home to breathtaking landscapes, rich and varied wildlife, and friendly, welcoming locals. There are many benefits to visiting Ireland in the late summer; the busy season is tailing off resulting in fewer crowds and cheaper prices, the weather is still relatively mild, and there are still many fascinating wildlife sightings to be experienced.
Whales and Dolphins
One of the top wildlife hotspots in Ireland is the Wild Atlantic Way. This 2500km long trail is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of whales and dolphins. One of just four bottlenose dolphin populations in Europe can be found in the Shannon Estuary, and another frequent visitor to this area is the Killer Whale.
During the late summer look out for the majestic humpback whale, a magnificent sight. Also between the months of June and January you may be lucky enough to view the fastest and second largest whale in the world, the incredible Fin Whale.
Seals
Another wonderful creature found along the Wild Atlantic way is the seal. To spot them in their natural habitat it’s wise to take to the water by kayak or island hopping. There are plenty of boat trips where you’re likely to see grey seals and common seals in abundance. Watch them playing in the water or lazing in the sun on the beaches from one of the many small islands of West Cork. These fantastic creatures can also be spotted on the rugged coasts of Burren National Park, Sligo and Donegal.
Red Deer
Red deer can be seen all year round in Ireland. The only native deer species, these graceful, richly coloured animals only narrowly escaped extinction in the 1800s. However, due to significant preservation efforts, there has been a good recovery of the red deer in Ireland in areas such as Killarney.
Puffins
Ireland is a bird watcher’s paradise. One of the most stunning birds to be spotted along Ireland's coast is the little black and white puffin with its wonderfully colourful bill. Found mainly along the West coast of Ireland or sometimes along the eastern coast, some of the best places to see them include Horn Head in Donegal, Great Saltee, and the Cliffs of Moher.
Another great place to find puffins is of course Puffin Island. These wonderful birds visit from March to September, staying in sea stacks and cliffs. Through the summer months they breed and feed their young on sprats and sand-eel.
Small Mammals
Often difficult to spot, you’re more likely to see tracks and signs of the animals than the animal itself. Mid to late summer can however be the best time to encounter mammals in the flesh such as foxes, squirrels, hedgehogs, badgers and hares. Responding to extended summer daylight, and the need to feed their young, these animals are often out at dusk or dawn foraging for food.
Insects
Dragonflies and damselflies are a regular and much loved sight during the summer months - with some species lingering into early Autumn. Fascinating to observe, dragonflies flit over pools and ponds. More difficult to spot but well worth a closer look are the wonderfully delicate and intricate damselflies dancing over water or resting on a blade of grass or rush.
Bats
There are 10 different species of bat in Ireland, and the longer days and lighter evenings make summer the perfect time to spot them. Catch the delight that is a bat in flight, soaring above you hunting for small flying insects. The most common species found in Ireland is the common pipistrelle.
Reptiles and amphibians
Ireland’s only native land reptile is the common lizard. Look out for it basking in the sun during the summer months. The best time of the day to spot them is in the morning when it’s cooler. Also look out for adult frogs in damp or boggy areas or near standing water. You may be able to spot young frogs and newts in the bordering vegetation of ponds and ditches.
Plants
As the summer progresses Ireland comes alive with an ever-changing riot of colour and blooms. A stunning explosion of wild flowers in the hedgerows and meadows, attracting many pollinating insects. Spot honeysuckle, wild dog rose, buttercups and irises. Be sure to look out for the wonderful species of orchids such as the stunning bee orchid which flowers during the summer months.