From the 15th to 24th May 2026 Dublin Bay Biosphere in collaboration with Dublin City Council's Biodiversity team celebrated National Biodiversity Week. This annual celebration is all about connecting people with nature, showcasing the incredible biodiversity found across our city, and inspiring communities to take action to protect our shared environment.

This year’s programme brought together expert ecologists, community groups and passionate volunteers from organisations such as Bat Conservation Ireland and the Irish Midlands Ringing Group. With guided tree and bat walks, hands‑on nature sessions, and wild bike rides this year was a hit!

The Bikes, Birds and Biosphere cycle saw a great group of participants take to two wheels for an enjoyable spin from Dublin Port to North Bull Island, exploring the rich wildlife and stunning scenery of the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere along the way. Travelling via the Tolka Greenway and coastal cycle route, the group had the chance to spot local birdlife, admire the views across the bay and learn more about the area's unique habitats. Thankfully, the only traffic encountered was the occasional curious seagull, with Herring Gulls and waders making regular appearances throughout the journey.

The day wrapped up with talks from Bull Island Conservation Park Rangers, DCC and Active Travel, opening the conversation on ongoing conservation efforts and the publics role.

The Flora and Fauna walk on Bull Island was led by Proinsias Mac an Bheatha, the author of Wildlife of Bull Island. Proinsias’s expertise made the day a fabulous day out full of knowledge and learning. As the group explored the dunes and grasslands, participants gained a deeper understanding of how Bull Island was formed, the unique habitats it supports, and the wealth of wildlife that calls it home. Along the route, a variety of orchids in bloom, insects and birdlife provided plenty to see and discuss. The walk offered a wonderful opportunity to slow down, take a closer look at nature, and appreciate one of Dublin’s most remarkable natural treasures, with many attendees leaving knowing far more about Bull Island than they did when they arrived

The St Annes park Tree walk was guided by DCC Tree Officer Ludovic Beaumont. The walk focused on the parks living collection, some towering veterans to unusual species hidden along the woodland paths. The way in which these trees grow, interact and support the ecosystem around them was explored.

We also looked at the evolution of the landscape, from its origins as the Guinness estate into one of Dublin’s most diverse urban woodlands tucked within the Dublin Bay UNESCO Biosphere.