Explore nature’s wonders in Cloughjordan
Get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty and importance of our natural world!
Cloughjordan Ecovillage is delighted to host a special lineup of free events as part of National Biodiversity Week Ireland 2025, offering something for nature enthusiasts of all ages. From film screenings to hands-on workshops and guided walks, this is your chance to connect with biodiversity right on our doorstep. We warmly invite you to join us for these engaging and inspiring experiences:
A Wild Vision on Screen: Kick off the week with Cloughjordan Cineclub on Sunday, May 18, at 7.30pm at the Thomas MacDonagh Museum. We'll be screening 'My Wild Garden,' a stunning documentary by renowned wildlife cameraman and presenter Colin Stafford-Johnson. Discover how Colin transformed his own Irish garden into a haven for wildlife, a journey filled with wonder and natural beauty.
Unlock the Secrets of Soil: On Tuesday, May 20, at 6.45pm, head to Nenagh Library to delve into The Theory and Practice of Home Composting with expert Mike Holden. This informative talk will illustrate various composting systems, address potential challenges and provide practical solutions. Come prepared with your questions and be ready to share your own composting experiences. Mike will also offer live demonstrations featuring essential composting tools, finished compost, and even a live wormery!
Listen to the Evening Chorus: Later that same evening, Tuesday, May 20, at 8pm, experience the unique calls and songs of our evening birds with Birdwatching on a Dusk Chorus Walk led by Jemima Turner at Cuan Beo (enter the Ecovillage at the back entrance on the Step Road, walk straight ahead through the gate, Cuan Beo is on your right). This special event combines an introductory session on bird identification by sound with a peaceful walk through the Ecovillage as the birds sing their beautiful evening chorus.
BUTTERFLY MONITORING
Meet Our Fluttering Friends: Join Rachel Vaughan and Brendan Sheehan at Cuan Beo on Thursday, May 22, at 2.30pm to Meet the Butterflies. Learn about Ireland's vital Butterfly Monitoring Scheme and discover the fascinating butterfly species you might encounter around Cloughjordan. Following an introductory talk, the group will embark on a walk through the Ecovillage (weather permitting) to spot and identify these delicate creatures.
Protecting the Night Sky: On Saturday, May 24, at 8pm at the Thomas MacDonagh Museum, join astronomer John Flannery to explore Preserving Dark Skies to Safeguard Biodiversity. Discover the often-overlooked consequences of light pollution on our natural world through an insightful slideshow, followed by a guided sky viewing experience with John, offering a chance to connect with the cosmos.
Nature Crafting Fun for Families: Bring the little ones along on Sunday, May 25, at 2pm at Cuan Beo for Family Fun: Exploring Biodiversity Through Nature Crafting. Inspired by forest school techniques, this hands-on session is designed for children aged 6-10 (siblings welcome) and their accompanying adults. Explore the natural world through creative crafting and take home your unique nature-inspired creations.
Important Notes: children must be accompanied by adults at all events. All events are free to attend, and no booking is required. Don't miss this wonderful opportunity to celebrate and learn about the incredible biodiversity that surrounds us in Cloughjordan Ecovillage! We look forward to welcoming you.