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The aim of the survey is to accrue modern records for this internationally important invertebrate with the overall objective of producing an up-to-date distribution map.

In Ireland, there are five 10km grid squares where the species has not been recorded since pre-1950 and other areas where the last records are pre-1980. The survey will help to address these important shortcomings. This investigation also forms an integral part of a wider study to examine the population ecology of the Kerry Slug and to develop a suitable monitoring protocol for the species.

Where is the Kerry Slug found?
The global distribution of the Kerry Slug is Ireland, Spain and Portugal and although the species has been reported from France, its presence there has never been confirmed. In Ireland, the slug is restricted to west Cork and Co. Kerry. In these areas it is found in two habitat types, oak dominated woodland and unimproved open moor or blanket bog.

Is the Kerry Slug a pest species?
Unlike many other slug species, the Kerry Slug is not regarded as a pest and is associated with wild habitats away from humans. In Ireland this invertebrate is protected under the Wildlife Act 1976 and under the EU Habitats Directive (as an Annex II and Annex IV species). In addition, seven Special Areas of Conservation (SACs) have been designated for the protection of the species.