We’re shining a light on the wildlife species quietly disappearing from our landscapes. From the call of the curlew to the flicker of butterfly wings over a summer meadow, these creatures remind us that we share our world with many others, and that not all are thriving.

Across Northern Ireland, a growing number of native species are now endangered or in serious decline. Birds like the twite, lapwing, corncrake, snipe, and redshank, once familiar sights and sounds in our fields and wetlands, are now increasingly rare. The haunting call of the curlew, once a staple of spring mornings, is fading as nesting grounds shrink and disturbances grow. These birds rely on open landscapes, traditional farmland, and undisturbed wet meadows, habitats that are vanishing or being altered too quickly for them to adapt.

Meanwhile, the marsh fritillary butterfly, one of the most striking and threatened butterflies in Europe, is hanging on in a few protected grasslands. It depends on damp meadows rich in devil’s-bit scabious, habitats that are sensitive to grazing changes, drainage, and development. Even plants are at risk: the Irish whitebeam, a rare native tree found only in parts of Ireland, faces pressure from habitat loss and invasive species.

These aren’t isolated stories, they’re part of a wider pattern. But the hopeful news is that there’s still time to act, and our actions, however small, can help turn the tide.

Planting native trees like hawthorn, rowan, and oak supports the food web from insects to birds. Letting a patch of garden go wild, or sowing native wildflowers, creates food and shelter for butterflies and bees. By sticking to paths in wild areas, we protect nesting birds and delicate plants from being disturbed. Reducing waste and avoiding pesticides helps keep rivers, meadows, and coastlines safe for all species.

One of the easiest ways to support wildlife is to notice it. Sharing your sightings on the iNaturalist app helps build vital data that conservationists and land managers use to protect what remains and bring back what’s been lost.

Northern Ireland’s wildlife is beautiful, complex, and deeply connected to our sense of place. These species aren’t just part of nature, they’re part of our story, our culture, and our future.