Today’s statement from the @daera-ni.gov.uk Minister is an important step forward for environmental governance in Northern Ireland. The evidence is clear that our current system is failing both nature and people.

Here are our thoughts on DAERA's Independent Review of Environmental Governance:

Are you passionate about protecting wildlife and helping to restore habitats? At RSPB NI, we are recruiting roles right across the country. From Campaigning Communications Officer, to Machinery Operator. Read more and apply: rspb.org.uk/careers

85% of the RSPB is powered by volunteers – and that is worth celebrating 🎉 At the end of September, we came together at Oxford Island to say a huge thank you to our incredible volunteers.

If you’re a member of the RSPB, you’re the beating heart of everything we do. We can’t protect and restore nature without you. That's why we want to say thank you for the huge contribution all our members make, and that by being a member, you're doing something amazing for nature every day 👏

At RSPB NI, we remain concerned about the current state of agri-environment policy in Northern Ireland and spoke to BBC NI about this. The withdrawal of the Environmental Farming Scheme (EFS) without a fully functioning replacement has left many farmers in limbo.

🚨Important notice!🚨 Due to the weather conditions, our Rathlin West Light Seabird Centre will be closed today (Fri 4 July) from 1pm. We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause. We hope the Seabird Centre will reopen as normal tomorrow - weather depending. 📷Photo by Dakota Reid

Have you been keeping up with #Springwatch this week? Whats been your favourite moments so far? 👇 Don't forget to tune in again tonight at 8pm on BBC2 Wonder where Lolo will turn up tonight on his road trip around Northern Ireland?

One of our favourite moments of #Springwatch is spotting the adorable fluffy chicks. Need more chicks in your life? We got you 👇

Damsels & Dragons out in force today despite the wind and rain. @rspbni.bsky.social #damselflies #montiaghsmoss #wildlife #nature #dragonflies

The first episode of #Springwatch last night was incredible as always, and how amazing to see some of the species that live right in the heart of Belfast! Back again for night two? See you at 8.00pm, on BBC Two 😊

We’ve just delivered a message to Downing Street, backed by over 100,000 of you.‼️ Farmers, NGOs and the public are standing together to demand action. UK Government, this is a call you can't afford to ignore. Any cut now would be a disaster for farming and nature.

This #WildlifeWednesday we’re spotlighting 5 species that call our farmlands home: Yellowhammer, Barn Owl, Reed Bunting, Linnet and Curlew Farming for nature protects their future and ours. Help us make sure nature can have a home by taking our e-action: action.rspb.org.uk/page/169381/...

Our new poll reveals strong public support for nature-friendly farming 🌿 👉 Take our e-action to support farmers working with nature: brnw.ch/21wSrjb

Did you know that over 75% of Northern Ireland is farmed? That's why investing in nature-friendly farming is the best chance we have of seeing our wildlife recover and thrive. ✍️ Show your support for nature-friendly farming now: brnw.ch/21wSkRL

Blue carbon habitats are along our coastlines and in our sea – they play a vital role in storing carbon, providing for many species and improving water quality. Today the Minister has announced a Blue Carbon Action Plan for Northern Ireland, the first of its kind for the UK.

Great news from Rathlin Island as the Corncrake has returned! Listen out for the rare “crex crex” call when you’re walking the island. Thanks to volunteers, farmers and our staff for making this possible once again.

It’s #WorldCurlewDay! We’re heading back to Lower Lough Erne with Estate Operations Warden Amy Burns for a look at last year’s Curlew breeding season. Watch the full story here: www.youtube.com/watch?v=G6nX... To learn more or to support RSPB works, visit www.rspb.org.uk

Have you seen any waves of bluebells yet? Did you know that it can take over five years for a patch of Bluebells to establish? They prefer undisturbed soil, which is why they are often established with ancient woodlands. 📸Bluebell woodland, Mark Williamson

Happy #PuffinDay to everyone who loves a tiny bird in formalwear. Want a front-row seat to see the Puffins this year in Northern Ireland? Head to the West Light Seabird Centre, re-opening this Easter Sunday. Perched on the edge of the cliffs, where the sea meets sky and the Puffins come to nest 🌥️

They’ve done it again! The House Sparrow takes the top spot in Northern Ireland’s #BigGardenBirdwatch. See the full results here: bit.ly/BGBWResults25

📢 Speak up for nature in Northern Ireland! The #NatureRestoration Bill is our chance to secure legally binding targets for biodiversity, clean air, and thriving habitats. Make your voice heard, respond to the consultation by the 2nd of May: bit.ly/42jjTHw

For more on this see my colleague Meriel Harrison's new blog @rspbni.bsky.social @rspbaction.bsky.social community.rspb.org.uk/ourwork/b/na...

Join RSPB NI for an enchanting evening as we delve into the secret world of bats at the beautiful Portmore Lough Nature Reserve! Experience the sights and sounds of these fascinating creatures on a guided bat walk with Warden Cathryn 🦇 📅23 April Book: events.rspb.org.uk/events/109109

Puffins are back on Rathlin Island! With over 240,000 seabirds, it's time to plan your visit to the West Light Seabird Centre reopening on Easter Sunday, 20 April. Check out all the details here: bit.ly/PuffinsRSPBNI

Today marks the official #FirstDayOfSpring! From the first daffodils peeking through the soil to the cheerful songs of returning birds, nature is truly awakening. Discover more signs of spring to look out for here: bit.ly/4bOtCKo 📸Blackbird, Ben Andrew, RSPB Images

Have you spotted any Spring arrivals yet? The Chiffchaff will be making its way from Southern Europe & North Africa this month. Listen out for their sweet ‘chiff-chaff’ song, heralding their arrival, a sure sign that Spring is on its way. 🎵Heard any already? Image credit: Chiffchaff, Ben Andrew

Northern Ireland is one of the most nature-depleted places in the world. We need legislation with legally binding targets for biodiversity, air quality, and habitat recovery 🌱 Have your say in the public consultation before it’s too late: community.rspb.org.uk/getinvolved/...

RSPB NI Director Joanne Sherwood welcomed SistersIN mentee Olivia to Belfast WOW this week for a chance to engage with the female leadership team, ask them valuable questions about their careers and take part in some hands on conservation work. 📲More on IG Stories! #InternationalWomensDay

The RSPB is seeking a passionate individual to join our Council as a Trustee. If you’re dedicated to protecting and restoring nature then we want to hear from you! This is a voluntary role, but a fantastic opportunity to make a real impact on nature conservation in Northern Ireland. brnw.ch/21wR63y

Imagine your work contributing to the survival of Curlews, Lapwing, and other amazing species in Northern Ireland. From field roles in Fermanagh to peatland restoration in the Antrim Hills, RSPB NI has opportunities to help protect and conserve nature. www.rspb.org.uk/careers

Here's our view from Northern Ireland:

Exciting news for RSPB members! Together with the Ballynahinch Camera Club, the RSPB Belfast Local Group are running a photography competition in memory of beloved member Ian Jackson. Find out more: brnw.ch/IanJacksonPh... 📸Credit Ian Jackson

Thank you to everyone who took part in the #BigGardenBirdwatch this year! While the weather may not have been on our side, it was incredible to see people take an hour to count the garden birds, sharing your pictures with us! Don't forget to upload your results: www.rspb.org.uk/whats-happen...

🌟 Exciting news from our Belfast’s Window on Wildlife Reserve 🌟 A visiting Avocet has been spotted for the second time in two weeks! #NIBirds 📸 Lilian Ferguson

It's #BigGardenBirdwatch Weekend! It was a stormy start yesterday, but it's a beautiful sunny but chilly Saturday, perfect time to grab a cup of tea and sit by the window for your hour of birdwatching. Let us know what you see 👇