5 ways to get up close to Ireland’s wildlife

Almost one third of the world’s species of whales, dolphins and porpoises have been recorded in Irish waters.

The village of Carrigaholt along Loop Head in County Clare is home to over 150 bottlenose dolphins, so if you’d like to see these playful creatures leaping from the waters, you’re in with a good chance. The experienced guides from DolphinWatch are well versed in finding the right spot to take a peek at the action, and have one of the highest encounter rates in the world!

Just beyond the bustling streets of Dublin city lies a lush, green oasis. Beloved by the city’s inhabitants, Phoenix Park may be home to Dublin Zoo, but it's the wild herd of fallow deer that will capture your attention should you stroll by. The deer were introduced to the park in the 17th century, and the present-day herd is descended from those who were once hunted for food. Hire a bike, go for a stroll, or simply rest beneath the shade of the park's ancient trees. Today, nature lovers and deer enjoy this 350-year-old park side by side, with 200 adorable fawns born each year, but remember to keep your distance, and never ever feed the deer.

Hop on the ferry to Rathlin Island for Northern Ireland’s largest seabird colony. The Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre reveals all about breeding season, which starts in April, when puffins, razorbills and guillemots flock to the island, circling the skies and creating a cacophony of bird song. It's the puffins, though, that stand out from the crowd. These beautiful creatures mate for life – but only meet with their significant other for breeding season. So, you could say Rathlin Island is the ultimate romantic getaway! You’ll also see Ireland’s only upside down lighthouse here – its glowing red light glimmering out onto the wild waves below.

Nothing can warm the heart quite like a guided tour of Seal Rescue Ireland, a charity dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of Ireland's sick and injured seals. Based in Courtown, County Wexford, visitors meet the seals, hear their stories and learn about the charity’s incredible conservation work across the island. You can even adopt a seal and keep informed of its journey.

You’ll spot seals all around Ireland’s coastlines. County Kerry’s Great Blasket Island is home to one of Ireland’s largest colonies of grey seals. Visit in late summer to early autumn and you may see hundreds of these curious creatures basking on the beach during breeding season.

Synonymous with Celtic Ireland's legends and folklore, two Irish wolfhounds call the Bunratty Castle & Folk Park in County Clare home. And, with a little help from the public, these gentle giants were named Meabh (Mayve) and Saoirse (Seer-sha). The wolfhound's fearsome loyalty is well documented, especially in the tale of how the brave warrior Cú Chulainn got his name. As the most complete ancient fortress in Ireland, visitors can meet the pair in Bunratty while experiencing 19th century life in the 'living village'.