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Rare spiders found in National Park

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By Sean Moriarty

A spider expert has found three of Ireland’s rarest breeds of spiders in Killarney National Park.

Irish arachnologist (spider expert) Myles Nolan, who recently conducted a survey - revealed over 50 spider species living in the Park – and three rare species of spider were abundant.

However, he has confirmed to the Killarney Advertiser that none of the spiders, the Green Huntsman, the Eurasian Green Crab Spider and the Triangle Spider, are harmful and there’s no reason for anyone to fear them.

The Green Huntsman is restricted to the south-west of Ireland and prefers a combination of old woodland, preferably oak, and good quality wet grassland. It can be found in abundance locally in the oak woodlands of Cahnicaun and Glaisín na Marbh.

The Eurasian Green Crab Spider can be found on the foliage of both oak and yew trees near Derrycunnihy on the Moll’s Gap road and elsewhere.

A third species, the Triangle Spider, was found on many yew trees near Reenadinna in the Park and there are other sightings of this spider in County Cork.

 

“I carried out the survey from late August through to October,” Mr Nolan told the Killarney Advertiser.

“This involved collecting specimens by a number of methods including turning stones and dead wood, sifting through mosses, knocking specimens down from overhanging foliage of trees, heather and gorse, and using a sweep net to collect from grassy areas. Killarney National Park is the only place in Ireland where these spiders occur in abundance. I worked closely with the Conservation Rangers in the Park getting access to locations and they assisted with some collecting. Their knowledge was hugely helpful.”

 

 

 

 

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Dr Crokes Golf Society confirms Captain and President for 2026

Dr Crokes Golf Society has confirmed its new officers for 2026. Niall “Botty” O’Callaghan has been appointed Society Captain, while Matt O’Neill will serve as President for the year. The […]

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Dr Crokes Golf Society has confirmed its new officers for 2026. Niall “Botty” O’Callaghan has been appointed Society Captain, while Matt O’Neill will serve as President for the year.

The announcement was made at the Society’s annual prizegiving function, held in The Tatler Jack.
At the event, David Looney of The Tatler Jack presented the Christmas Hamper prize to Michael Howard. John McEnery was honoured as the winner of the Dingle outing, and Vincent Casey presented the Player of the Year award to Johnny O’Connor.
Those pictured at the prizegiving were, front from left: Brian O’Callaghan; John McEnery; David Looney (Tatler Jack, sponsor); Michael Howard; and Harry O’Neill. Back from left: Gavin O’Shea; Joey Sheehan; Matt O’Neill; Mike O’Leary; John Lynch; Vincent Casey; and Brendan Keogh.

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Kilcummin GAA announces return of annual Pink Night

The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3. Now in […]

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The Ladies’ Committee of Kilcummin GAA Club has announced the return of its annual Pink Night, set to take place in The Klub Bar on Saturday, January 3.

Now in its 12th year, the event will support Comfort for Chemo for the fifth year running. The evening promises both fun and fundraising for the charity.

Guests will be greeted with a Prosecco reception and chocolate-dipped strawberries to start the post-Christmas celebration.
While attendees are encouraged to wear pink, dressing up is optional, with the focus on community and support for the cause. Prizes will be awarded for Best Dressed Female and Best Dressed Male.

The event begins at 8:00pm. Entertainment will be provided by Derry and Rosie Healy followed by Barry McGrath playing late into the night.

A raffle and door prizes, kindly provided by local sponsors, will take place on the night. Committee member Kathleen Ryan said the continued support of the local sponsors is deeply appreciated.

Admission to the event is free, and all are welcome to attend the celebration.

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