The corncrake is protected under the European Union Birds Directive 1979
Special Protection Areas are designated for the protection of birds, especially listed rare and vulnerable species and regularly occurring migratory species. They are defined and regulated by the European Union Birds Directive 1979 (Council Directive 79/409/EEC) and the European Union (Natural Habitats) Regulations 1997 (S.I.94/97) concerning the long-term protection and management of all wild bird species and their habitats in the EU. Under the Directive, Ireland is required to take measures to protect all wild birds and to preserve a sufficient diversity of habitats for all species naturally occurring within their territories, so as to maintain populations. Species whose status is a cause for concern are specifically identified for special conservation measures in Annex I of the Directive, and SPAs have been designated based on either the presence of these species or the presence of significant numbers of wintering waterfowl. County Donegal has the largest population of Corncrakes in Ireland. Also protected under the directive are wetlands, especially those of international importance, that attract large numbers of migratory birds. Lough Swilly is one of the most important wetlands for birds in Ireland with 22 waterfowl species in nationally important numbers and three species in internationally important numbers. All Special Protection Areas are also Natural Heritage Areas. There are 26 designated SPAs in County Donegal and more details are available at: www.npws.ie
