Gardaí have recovered a male bullfinch during an operation targeting the illegal trapping and possession of wild birds in Limerick city.
The bird, whose scientific name is pyrrhula pyrrhula, was surrendered to National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) operatives during a search at a premises in the St Mary's Park area on Wednesday.
Known as corcrán coille in Irish, the bullfinch is common and widespread across Ireland.
The male bullfinch is around 15cm in length and can be identified by its bright crimson breast, glossy black head and grey back.
It has a green conservation status, meaning it is not of conservation concern, with the bullfinch increasing its breeding population in recent years.
The NPWS conducted the search alongside members of An Garda Síochána and Limerick dog warden services.
No arrests have been made and investigations are ongoing.
Gardaí said anyone wishing to make a report in relation to wildlife crime can contact their local garda station, or the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111.
Confidential reports can also be made to NPWS via email.
