Tipperary Tidy Towns group unveils new information board by river walk

Refresh Thurles Tidy Towns’ Nature Board "Butterflies of Ireland" is now in place on the river walk in Thurles, between the nature board at the Thomond Road entrance and the nature board at the Slievenamon entrance.

It can be seen clearly as you look to your right as you enter the Lidl car park.

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The picture shows the Thurles Tidy Towns installation team of Seamus Slattery and John Lanigan, who did the spade work, and Michael Molumby who provided the building expertise to ensure it was positioned properly.

The group hopes that it adds to people's enjoyment on their walk, as butterflies are an important aspect of Ireland's biodiversity.

The nature board shows in colourful detail the 34 regularly occurring species of butterfly in Ireland that can be readily identified in the field.

The National Biodiversity Data Centre maps the butterflies distribution and tracks how populations are changing.

You can help by downloading the free Biodiversity Data Capture App to submit sightings.

However, it has to be said that, unlike as in times past, butterflies are not as plentiful throughout the year as they were, and they are noticeably absent on the Buddleia Bush that is usually full of butterflies when in full flower in July and August.

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The group says that thanks are due to CM Signs for making the nature board and Pressure Welding Manufacturing for their invaluable contribution.

The group also wishes to say thanks to Tipperary County Council for financing the project.

They say it is great to see that the river walk is enjoyed by so many, young and old, and they hope their nature boards are a welcome addition.