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Further tests to be carried out on sick deer

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Photo: Christopher Brown

 

By Michelle Crean

 

The source and cause of an illness which is making Killarney deer sick must be identified and addressed as a matter of urgency – the Irish Deer Commission (IDC) has stated this week.

A small number of Native Red Deer were observed with difficulties walking and severe antler deformities during a recent Red Deer Rut Watch event in Killarney National Park.

While the cause of the symptoms is unknown and subject to further tests, they are consistent with Perennial Ryegrass Staggers, a poisoning by peramine, lolitrem B, and other toxins that are contained in perennial ryegrass (Lolium perenne) and produced by the endophyte fungus Neotyphodium lolii.

The condition has shown in young male deer and females with no evidence of symptoms in mature stags. Prior to the rut, female deer and young males tend to feed in the same area, with mature stags forming bachelor herds and feeding in different areas.

Symptoms can include tremors, convulsions, antler deformities, difficulties walking and death.

On making further inquiries it is understood seven Red Deer were showing similar symptoms. Local Department of Culture, Heritage and the Gaeltacht staff were notified of the issue and it is understood are taking appropriate action and testing.

It is not known if Ryegrass is present in Killarney National Park however deer regularly feed outside the National Park.

“There is no known treatment to reverse the symptoms of Ryegrass Staggers in farmed deer, animals can be moved to non-infected pastures to prevent escalation of the side effects however in Killarney National Park the deer are free roaming wild deer, so this is not possible,” the Irish Deer Commission said.

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Soroptimists to host annual Pancake and Coffee Morning

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Killarney Soroptimist Club has announced the return of its annual Pancake and Coffee Morning, which will take place on Shrove Tuesday, February 17.

The event will be held at the Killarney Avenue Hotel starting from 10.30am.

Attendees can look forward to a morning of music and entertainment featuring Tim Gleeson and friends.

Along with pancakes and coffee, the event will feature various raffles and a door prize on the day.

This year’s door prize is a two-night bed and breakfast stay at the Hayfield Manor Hotel.

The event is a significant fundraiser for the club, with all proceeds being donated to Rockmount Care Centre in Kilgarvan and St Mary of the Angels in Beaufort.

Tickets for the morning are priced at €20 and are available for purchase from, Soroptimist Members, the chosen beneficiary charities or Sheila Casey at 086 814 9677.

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Julie Deady wins first Camera Club competition of year

The first competition of the new year proved a strong start for Killarney Camera Club, with January’s theme of “Sunset” attracting a wide range of high-quality entries. Top honours went […]

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The first competition of the new year proved a strong start for Killarney Camera Club, with January’s theme of “Sunset” attracting a wide range of high-quality entries.

Top honours went to Julie Deady, a former Photographer of the Year winner with the club, for her image titled Church of St Primoz and Felicijan. The photograph was taken in Slovenia and captured a striking sunset, with deep reds and strong orange tones stretching across the sky. The setting sun silhouetted a bank of clouds, while warm evening light spilled across the surrounding landscape.
The nearby church, trees and open fields were softly lit, adding depth and balance to the scene. The image impressed judge John Hootan, a distinguished photographer, who praised its exposure, composition and timing. He awarded the photograph full marks, describing it as a benchmark for the competitions ahead.
Members said the standard of entries made the judging particularly competitive and set a positive tone for the year. With such a strong opening round, anticipation is already building for the next monthly themes as members continue to develop their skills and creativity.
The club thanked all members who took part, noting that the growing level of participation and friendly rivalry continues to raise standards across the competitions.

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