The Quay, Corkbeg, Whitegate, Co. Cork, waterbird survey and disturbance observations, September–October 2025

This dataset contains the details and results of waterbird surveys and disturbance sensitivity observations carried out to inform the Natura Impact Statement for a proposed development at The Quay, Corkbeg, Whitegate, Co. Cork.

Six waterbird surveys were carried out in September and early October 2025. Each waterbird survey comprised a sequence of counts of waterbirds within 200 m of The Quay across the ebb, flood and/or neap low tide periods when the tideline was close to the shoreline. In addition, on each survey day, a full count of Whitegate Bay was carried out at low tide. Additional counts were carried out on other days.

Disturbance sensitivity observations were made on all waterbird species that occurred within 125 m of The Quay, with the exception of gull species. The disturbance stimulus for each observation was the observer. Each observation recorded the distance of the birds from the observer, the nature of their response (if any), and the distance moved and time to resume feeding for birds that showed a movement response.