A special project is underway at the moment on Lough Ree in the midlands which is bordered by Longford, Westmeath and Roscommon.
The lake supports nationally important populations of seven wintering waterfowl species, as well as other important species including Whooper Swan.
The site has a range of breeding waterfowl, notably nationally important populations of Common Scoter, Great Crested Grebe, Wigeon, Teal, Goldeneye and Tufted duck.
The project underway right now is aimed at improving duck breeding and it involves the placing of a number of specially constructed 'tube like' nests for ducks which offer them better protection during the breeding season.
Owen Murphy is warden with the NPWS for Lough Ree and the mid-Shannon callows.
He spoke to Anne Norris on the Let's Talk show about the efforts underway to protect the fowl who visit the lake , as well as those who live there all year round.
