Connect with us

News

Further tests to be carried out on sick deer

Published

on

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.

Advertisement

News

Deenagh Lodge to host Alzheimer’s Memory Walk

Published

on

By

Killarney National Park will serve as the venue for this year’s Kerry Alzheimer’s Memory Walk on Sunday, September 20.

Participants will gather at the Deenagh Lodge ahead of an 11.00am start to complete a 5km scenic route through the park.

The event takes place on the eve of World Alzheimer’s Day as part of a nationwide series of walks supported by Aviva.


Now in its seventh year, the initiative raises vital funds for The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to support local dementia services, including daycare centres, family carer training, social clubs, dementia cafés, and the national helpline.

Last year, nearly 3,000 walkers across Ireland raised over €240,000 for the cause.


The Kerry walk will be led by local champions Kathriona Sheehan, Niamh Murphy, Lynda Phillips, and Melissa Molyneaux, who are walking in support of all those living with dementia.
“We are proud to lead our annual Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva to help fund local dementia services in Kerry,” they said. “The event is about community and helping spread awareness by walking together to raise vital funds for care, support, and hope for the days ahead. Join us in Killarney on Sunday, 20th September to show your support.”


With over 40 walks scheduled across Ireland, members of the public can walk in memory of a loved one or to show solidarity. Further details and registration are available at memorywalk.ie.

Attachments

Continue Reading

News

Gary Moynihan wins racecourse style title

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day. Moynihan, a local neuromuscular […]

Published

on

Style reigned supreme at Killarney Racecourse as local resident Gary Moynihan and Offaly’s Sylwia Novak captured the top honours at the Canella Lane Best Dressed Day.

Moynihan, a local neuromuscular therapist, claimed Best Dressed Gentleman in a made-to-measure six-button burgundy double-breasted suit with a navy check from Saville Menswear in Cork. He completed the winning look with a shirt and paisley tie from Simply Suits Killarney and brown derby shoes from Pavers at the Killarney Outlet Centre.
Best Dressed Lady was awarded to Novak, a hospital personal assistant from Tullamore, who wore a red polka-dot ensemble and custom hat designed by milliner Rita Daly, featuring sustainable jewellery made from recycled plastic.
Canella Lane owner Ciana Aspell praised the high standard of fashion on the day, while Killarney Racecourse Manager Karl McCay thanked the sponsors and racegoers for their support.
With the summer season now wrapped up, the team at Killarney Racecourse is gearing up for the October Festival on October 4 and 5, featuring its first-ever Student Raceday with SPIN South West on the Monday. Early ticket booking is advised.

Continue Reading

Last News

Sport