Kerry to blossom from ‘highly successful’ biodiversity project for first time

By Alastair Tibbs, The Kerryman

A “highly successful” biodiversity project has come to Kerry for the first time, with applications now open for interested landowners.

The Hare’s Corner initiative will provide support for the creation of pro-wildlife features on farmland such as ponds, mini-woodlands and hedgerows.

Developed by the non-profit Burrenbeo Trust, the scheme takes its name from the old farming expression for an awkward section of a field that was often left to nature.

Kerry is one of 10 counties involved in The Hare’s Corner project this year, including Limerick, Wexford and Kilkenny.

Eleanor Turner, Biodiversity Officer at Kerry County Council, said: “We are delighted to partner with The Hare’s Corner project this year and to bring the opportunity to create biodiversity habits to the people of Kerry.”

“Many people want to do something for nature but are confused as to what they can or should do…Hare’s Corner meets this need by providing the encouragement, advice, and micro-funding to do it.”

Available supports include a mini woodland (a mix of 50 trees), a wildlife hedge (a mix of 50 trees), a heritage orchard (5 apple trees), a wildlife pond and a visit from a Hare’s Corner advisor.

Last year, The Hare’s Corner marked its fifth anniversary by creating 1,600 habitats for biodiversity in six counties around Ireland.

Lee Worrell, The Hare's Corner Co-ordinator, said: “We are delighted to be in Kerry for the first time in 2026 after having such a highly successful first year in the country.”

“It has been heartening for us to see the amount of interest The Hare’s Corner generates up and down the country.”