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South Dublin’s annual trip to the ‘Eye was well supported again; sixty people presented themselves at the East Pier
at Howth on the Saturday morning. Thanks to our boatman Mark Doyle they were all landed safely on the island in two
trips. Those of us with the dubious pleasure of waiting for the second sailing had the bonus of seeing a Peregrine
fly low across the harbour towards the island but unfortunately it wasn’t seen subsequently. Several Sandwich Terns
also flew across.
On the trip over it was good to see the Black Guillemots which breed in the harbour walls and several more were seen
off the NE side of the island.
On the cliffs nesting Razorbills, Guillemots and Kittiwakes were plentiful. Some Fulmars were nesting close to the
“viewing platform” while way below green-eyed Shags were resplendent in the ‘scopes. Half a dozen or so Puffins were
also very co-operative. Avoiding the head-height ferns in the lowlands necessitated hiking up and over the crown of
the island and braving some very disgruntled Great Black-backed Gulls and their still flightless chicks. The survivors
of this forced march were rewarded with the Gannet colony on the Stacks. Numbers looked lower than in previous years,
though many birds could be seen fishing out to sea.
This was a chance for some lunch but I was dismayed to hear that some participants on the Tolka trip two weeks
earlier had upstaged us and brought out bottles of wine and accoutrements. South Dublin standards will have to
rise next year though whether one could enjoy a Chablis in the midst of ethnic cleansing and domestic violence
among Great Black-backed Gulls is debateable.
Lunch on Ireland's Eye .. Photo: Brian Gormley
Further south along the coast it was amazing to see the stranded Brent Goose still surviving; this must be its
third summer on the island. The Thulla was festooned with Cormorants in best heraldic pose.
Coming back to the landing stage along the beach there were Oystercatchers and Ringed Plover with their young.
A very spectacular Linnet with blood spattered forehead and breast necessitated collaring someone with a bird
guide just to make sure.
Many thanks to the committee members who came out - Aileen, Freddie and Ken, and to Sean Hogan who was
surreptitiously co-opted on board. I think everyone enjoyed the trip.
- Brian Gormley
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Wales ... 4-6th June 2005
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Welsh Trip 2005 .. at RSPB Conwy .. Photo: Brian Gormley
Welsh Trip 2005 .. at Lake Vyrnwy .. Photo: Brian Gormley
Welsh Trip 2005 .. at Lake Vyrnwy .. Photo: Terry Flanagan
Welsh Trip 2005 .. at Dolydd Hafren .. Photo: Brian Gormley
Welsh Trip 2005 .. Red Kite at Gigrin Farm .. Photo: Terry Flanagan
Welsh Trip 2005 .. at Ynys Hir .. Photo: Brian Gormley
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Belfast Lough & Oxford Island ... 6th March 2005
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For me, our annual coach trip to Northern Ireland is one of the high points of our events calendar, and judging by the
number of passengers who came along this year it is clear that many South Dublin Branch members feel the same way.
While the main focus of the trip is the outstanding RSPB reserve at Belfast Lough, the close proximity of several
other excelling birding sites ensures that a very wide variety of habitats are visited and consequently a large
number of birds are seen.
Our first stop was, as is now customary, at Dundalk Docks, always a great spot for waders and waterfowl. Although
bird numbers were perhaps not as high as on our previous visits, the close views of such beauties as Wigeon, Goldeneye
and Shelduck more than compensated. Stately Cormorants stood drying their wings, many already coming into their smart
breeding plumage. Around them, busy Redshanks dashed about on the mudflats, their attention focussed entirely on
building up their fuel reserves for the arduous migration that was fast approaching. They were joined in their
frantic efforts by a few godwits and just a single Dunlin, not a bird that is usually seen alone. Altogether
calmer were the almost motionless Common Gulls, who watched on passively; not having to fly as far to their
breeding grounds, and wintering so close to a rubbish dump where a constant supply of gourmet food was assured,
they could well afford to take things easy.
Dundalk is also a well-known wintering spot for Twite, a beautiful little finch that sadly has undergone a near
catastrophic breeding decline in Ireland in recent years. Careful scanning of the distant Linnet flocks foraging
in the trees surrounding the dump did reveal a handful of their scarce pink-rumped cousins with them, but for how
much longer will they be found here? Let us hope that the newly-announced BirdWatch Ireland survey into their
breeding population will come up with ways to reverse their decline. While our attention was on the dump, keen
eyes also picked out not one, not two but three Buzzards, soaring high overhead on thermals. In sharp contrast
to the unfortunate Twite, Buzzards have been enjoying a dramatic increase across Ireland in recent years; not
long ago they would have been an almost impossible bird for us to see even once in a whole year of South Dublin
Branch trips, whereas on this outing alone we had a grand total of seven separate individuals.
Piling back onto the coach, we soon crossed the border into Northern Ireland and made our way up the motorway to
Belfast Harbour Estate. To those of you who have never been there, it must seem a most unlikely location for a
bird reserve, and I’m sure that some of the first-time participants must have thought we had made a wrong
turn somewhere as we drove past the security checkpoint and on past seemingly endless rows of petroleum storage
vats and industrial facilities. The RSPB have done a remarkable job, however, and one only has to glance
outside the large picture windows of the main building (surely the most luxurious bird hide in all of Ireland)
to see that Belfast Lough is in fact one of Ireland’s ornithological treats. These windows allow a perfect view out . . .
but the glass has been specially treated so that the birds cannot see in. The resultant proximity of the 50 or
so Black-tailed Godwits foraging not two metres in front of our seats was for me one of the most memorable
birding sights I have ever experienced. A couple of iridescent Lapwing mingled with them, crests blowing in the
breeze, while amorous Moorhens dashed about between them with only one thing on their minds.
Suddenly a shout went out, and we dashed to the right-hand window to see what all the fuss was about. A stunning
Water Rail, ordinarily a very secretive bird, had just broken cover and was strutting about in the open for all to
see; for many, it was the first time they had ever seen this species, and many were surprised at just how brightly
coloured and intricately patterened its plumage is. Nearby, a group of Linnets was joined by a small party of
Reed Buntings, the males looking particularly gorgeous in their breeding finery. Then, another shout went out,
this time alerting us to the presence of a House Sparrow at the opposite end of the room. Though perhaps sounding
unremarkable to us, the announcement prompted a stampede of birders; House Sparrow is apparently a very rare bird
in the area, and many of the locals needed to see it for their reserve lists.
Attention soon turned also to the massed ranks of gulls loafing about on the far shore of the lough itself. As one
would expect, the usual Herring Gulls, Common Gulls, Black-headed Gulls and Great Black-backed Gulls were present in
good numbers, with several Lesser Black-backed Gulls dotted around for good measure. A total of three Iceland Gulls
were also picked out, including one unfortunate adult that seemed to have broken his left wing, the usually snow-white
tip of which was trailing in the mud behind him. This past winter has been an excellent one for ‘white-winged’ gulls
in Ireland, with higher than usual numbers of both Iceland and Glaucous Gulls seen all over the country.
It has been a good winter for ducks, too, as was evidenced by the large numbers of Wigeon, Teal and Shoveler swimming
on the water and lounging on the grass. There were lots of waders accompanying them, with Redshank and Snipe perhaps
the most numerous. A pair of Ruff was also spotted at the back of the reserve, allowing all excellent views of this
scarce passage migrant.
Our final stop of the day was at Oxford Island Nature Reserve, always an excellent spot for ducks and woodland birds.
Upon our arrival we were greeting with a sign announcing that the visitor centre and facilities were closed for
refurbishment and that no reserve staff were on duty . . . a fact that had not gone unnoticed by the hoards of jet
ski owners who were doing their best to rid the place of birds entirely. All the Coot had fled to the safety of a
nearby field, and just a couple of resolute Cormorants and a few distant Goldeneye remained on the main body of the
lake. On scanning the reedbeds, however, we were pleased to see that they were providing the other waterbirds with
some degree of sanctuary, and our patience was rewarded with good views of Pochard, Tufted Duck and Little Grebe.
In front of the main hide an elegant pair of Great Crested Grebes was engaged in their lovely courtship dance while
two oblivious male Ruddy Ducks swam around them.
Moving on through one of the woodland trails, we were soon joined by a feeding party of Goldcrests and Long-tailed Tits,
while Great Tits and Wrens sang from the trees all around us. Returning to the bus, a lone Song Thrush serenaded us
from a tree top while a flock of Redwing filed past, preparing to head back to their breeding quarters in Iceland.
Scanning what looked like a distant flock of sheep across the road revealed that the white blobs were in fact
Whooper Swans, no doubt driven from the reserve itself by the selfish activities of the jet ski users.
A closer look also uncovered a couple of Bewick’s Swans hiding with them. As we boarded the bus, it was comforting
to know that at least the human disturbance hadn’t chased the birds from this usually tranquil area after all.
As always, it had been a very exciting trip with a large range of species seen, and I for one will be looking
forward to doing it all again next year.
- Niall Hatch
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North Bull Island ... 6th February 2005
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Dull and cool south of the Liffey but further north an ominous dark sky didn't look very welcoming and
almost on the dot at 10.30am, our traditional starting time for branch outings those skies opened and
suddenly hailstones were bouncing off the windscreen. Nobody ventured out of their cars as the deluge
formed instant flash floods at the side of the causeway. This was not good especially since we had a good
turnout, the tide was perfect and through the rain we could make out hundreds of birds gathered on the mud
and in the channels. Thankfully the rain eased off a little and since the folk that come to our outings are
a hardy bunch who aren't going to be put off by cold winds and sheets of rain we set up our 'scopes and
looked southward from the causeway path at the first of our rewarding sights of the morning, a big flock
of Knot very close some just near the base of the causeway. Normally when we'd see these birds it would
be as distant flock on Sandy mount Strand as we do winter counts and if we got too close to them they'd
be off wheeling and weaving through the air but here they were giving great views and seemingly unconcerned
by our presence. Evidently birds feeding and roosting on the Bull get used to the passing walkers and
realise they pose no threat to them.
Redshank and a few Dunlin fed nearby obliging us with good contrasting views for comparison with the
Knot. People new to watching birds can find wader identification difficult but after a little
familiarity you realise we don't have such a big variety of waders and many of these have very
distinguishing features or behaviour. Knot are usually seen in flocks, rarely singly, and have a
general rounded, almost plump, appearance. Redshank have a slender elongated appearance and of
course distinct red legs, or 'shanks'. Dunlin are small often dashing around very busily and have
a distinctly downwards curved bill. Other waders on display were Curlew, Black-tailed Godwit,
Oystercatcher and farther away over twenty Grey Plover with their
distinct manner of feeding by walking a few steps and tilting their head to hear and see any
movement of invertebrates under the sand. Even from a
distance the big black eyes of Grey Plovers are distinctive. We crossed over to the other side
of the causeway facing north and Brian spotted a
Peregrine falcon perched on a post. Later we saw him rise and fly low sending flocks of birds
wheeling through the air but he soon returned to sit on another post.
In the corner to our left a Little Egret stood hunched against the bitter wind and a Greenshank
strode elegantly in front of him. Flights of Brent took off from nearby St. Annes Park and by
this stage a lot of us were taking off too the cold wind not getting any easier to bear. A very
rewarding morning though and old adage 'No pain, no gain' very applicable under the circumstances.
- Michael Ryan
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Wexford Outing ... A Virtuous Gaggle ! ... 7th November 2004
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North Slobs, Wexford
Patience is a virtue and thankfully one which we retained at the start of
our annual excursion to Wexford, when we discovered our coach awaited us at
Rathfarnham rather than Dun Laoghaire. Some members made good use of the
spare time and began their day's birding list in the vicinity of the
harbour.
Once safely aboard our comfortable coach we made straight for Ballycarnew
where 2 peregrine falcons were seen by all; one perched on a ledge whilst
the other flew around the area. A great spectacle to begin the day.
A visit to Curracloe provided wonderfully close views of well over 100
common scoters, with a Slavonian Grebe tucked in amongst them.There were
also a few red-throated divers, a guillemot, cormorants and the usual
assortment of gulls. Near the car-park we noted various passerines including
a meadow pipit and 2 splendid male stonechats.
On arrival at the North Slobs those who had resisted the temptation to graze
en-route now devoured their picnics! We then dispersed to the various hides
for the next few hours and being a dry, clear day the visability was
generally good. There were brilliant views of a flock of 20 tree sparrows
feeding on a sunlit bank at the new hide just beyond the tower, the black
spot on the cheek and the chestnut crown showing very clearly.
Seawards from the "double-decker" hide we enjoyed views of a velvet scoter,
this bird seeming to delight in being elusive!!
In the pools we observed several greenshank, redshank, a spotted redshank,
little egrets,and grey herons.Some people had the good fortune to see
Whooper and Bewick swans beside each other and so were able to spot the
differences with ease! Duck seen included mallard, teal, wigeon, pochard,
tufties, goldeneye and also mergansers and great-crested grebes. A small
group of Brent flew by, and in the late afternoon there were flocks of
lapwing and black-tailed godwit.
By then the numbers of white-fronted geese had begun to build up but
unfortunately we did not see large numbers of geese as we were unable to go
for our customary drive further into the reserve. Hopefully this problem
will be ironed out in the future.
A group total of 79 and a half was recorded, the half being the squeal of a
water rail...........it all adds to the day!
- Ruth Mann
Photos: Robbie Syme
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Knock Lake and Rogerstown .. 10th October 2004
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Knock Lake.
Knock Lake is well known to Dublin Bird-racers trying to nail a last species or two, a Whooper or a Yellowhammer, in early January every year. The Branch trip in early October was a lot more leisurely.
Approaching the lake, from the lane off the Balbriggan road, there were Stonechat along the ditches and Bullfinch calling.
The highlight wasn't a bird but an otter that performed relentlessly across the lake from us, surfacing repeatedly, sometimes to chew on the tail end of a fish.
Around the shoreline we had Waterhen, Little Grebe, Tufted Duck, Mallard and a pair of Redshank. Lapwing flew overhead. Water Rail, which are plentiful but secretive, were heard but none seen.
On the lower pond south of the hide, Coot were plentiful and a Snipe stood impassively in the reed edges for the 'scopes. The hide, a tribute to the Fingal Branch, was open and many saw a Buzzard fly low into the trees north of the lake.
As the NPWS (Duchas) says "This lake, although artificial in origin, is of importance for botanical and zoological interests. Similar such water bodies are scarce in Co Dublin." - Knock Lake is a hidden gem.
Rogerstown.
Over at the Rogerstown hide it was initially quiet with time to look at close-up Dunlin, Black-tailed Godwit and Redshank. Further over, several Little Egrets moved through the fields. A juvenile Ruff was resplendent in zigzag back and wing pattern. Up the estuary a Spotted Redshank stood out as an extremely pale bird. It fed off a mud spit with rapid back and forth "sewing machine" movements of its bill.
Leaving the hide, a Buzzard flew low down the estuary, hovering occasionally, before being mobbed and moved on by the crows.
A very enjoyable morning, demonstrating again the richness and variety of the wildlife in north Co Dublin.
B.G.
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Kilcoole 12th September 2004
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The annual autumn trip to Kilcoole was well supported, despite strong south westerlies which threatened rain and weren’t long in delivering.
The BWI reserve was deserted but along the beach we had good views of three or more Wheatears hunkered down waiting for a break in the weather to
go south. Ringed Plover were plentiful, while offshore some Sandwich Tern flew headlong into the gale above some Cormorants and Shags. On the marshland
south of the reserve we had three Little Egrets feeding among some Black-headed Gulls and a Lesser Black-backed.
Along the lagoon there was a scattering of Dunlin and a group of Black-tailed Godwits showed well in the remnants of their summer plumage. Passerines were
scarce; a large flock of Linnets and the always reliable Stonechats along the railway line.
There was no movement of hirundines; we had two or three Swallows flying south and no Martins, but I read afterwards that someone had a late Swift
at Kilcoole that day. The weather seemed to be keeping the birds down and before reaching the Breaches most people had worked up enough of an
appetite to head for the Sunday lunch.
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Ireland's Eye 10th July 2004
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When we couldn’t get ashore on Ireland’s Eye at our first attempt on 3rd July, an on-the-spot decision was made to try again on
the 10th.
Eight people turned up, a few stalwarts and a few visitors, for a fabulous trip.
The Black Guillemots are nesting again in the pier face at the mouth of the harbour and many more were seen off the island.
Landings on the island are slightly less fraught with the new railings at the landing stage. Off the cliffs to the NE we immediately had ten Puffins close
in; these are of course one of the highlights of the ‘Eye. Guillemot and Razorbill cling to the cliffs amid groups of Kittiwake
and Fulmar.
Shags seemed to be present in greater numbers and close up the bird is spectacularly plumaged, with that emerald eye its crowning glory.
We went directly up and over the highest point of the island to avoid the dense ferns and didn’t raise too much objection from the
Great Black-backed Gulls. Being a bit later in the year, most of the chicks had flown, though we came across several large ones crouching in the grass.
The Stacks were festooned with Gannets and some seem to have colonized the cliff face of the main island. Kittiwakes, which shouldn’t be
classed as gulls, occupied the remaining space. Michael Ryan found the one and only bridled Guillemot here.
Down towards the sea caves we encountered the flightless Brent Goose, with an injured left wing, which has been there for two or
three summers now. Can this be the same bird? Though appearing slightly cowed by the Black-backs, among which it is marooned, it is
mobile and swims offshore.
At the Thulla there were the usual hordes of Cormorant and along the west beach some Ring Plover and Oystercatcher.
A solitary Raven prospected the tide line.
Ireland’s Eye is as magical as ever but remember, the public transport is the only one in Dublin that runs
on time and, if you’re late for the boat then the air
will be blue!
Brian Gormley
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South Dublin Branch Trip to Wales
Saturday 5th - Monday 7th June 2004
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Following the success of our 2003 trip to Wales and due to popular demand, the South Dublin
Branch Committee decided to run a trip to Wales again this year. Good as last year's trip was, it
was felt that a trip of just two days did not allow us enough time to do the Principality and its
birdlife justice, so this time around we decided to make it a three day affair instead.
Day 1
Our ferry, the Jonathan Swift, left Dublin Port just before 7am, and, as we rapidly left Ireland
behind us, seabirds such Guillemots and Razorbills were quickly found resting on the dead calm
sea. Further out, more pelagic species such as Gannets, Manx Shearwaters and Kittiwakes gave
breathtakingly close views, with a few distant sightings of Common and/or Risso's Dolphins.
Interestingly, two Common Terns were seen resting on a piece of driftwood about half way to
Holyhead!
Arriving in Wales, we met up with our coach and promptly set off to our first destination, Conwy
RSPB Reserve. Along the way, the first of many Buzzards, Carrion Crows and Ravens were seen.
The Conwy Reserve, the flagship of RSPB Wales, gave us our first experience of several species
uncommon in or absent from Ireland, such as Reed Warbler, Ruddy Duck, Canada Goose and
Red-breasted Merganser. Another species we had hoped to see in Conwy was Little Ringed Plover,
but as was the case last year, it eluded us. Aside from the superb birding, the RSPB's Spring Fair
was in full swing, and many of us found an excuse to dig into our pockets and pick up some
excellent locally-sourced produce.
After a quick lunch, we continued towards Lake Vyrnwy, which is set in the
heart of the Cambrian
Mountains. This reserve contains a variety of habitats, most importantly extensive areas of rich
broadleaf forest and heath surrounding a huge dam, much of which is managed by the RSPB. As a
result of this diversity, the reserve supports a wide variety of birds. From the dam at the edge of the
reservoir (which, by the way, supplies nearby Liverpool with most of its drinking water), we saw a
female Goosander with 10 little ducklings in tow, as well as a pair of Great Crested Grebes and
many Swallows and House Martins. As we moved on through the broadleaf forest, we encountered
a couple of Marsh Tits (now quite scarce in Wales), a Great Spotted Woodpecker, several singing
Wood Warblers and a solitary male Pied Flycatcher. We almost had a Tawny Owl on our list, too,
but after several minutes of staring at a stationary (though admittedly owl-like) piece of wood, all
we could tick was a rather embarrassed and apologetic reserve warden! Come on now, admit it,
who swore they saw the owl's eyes blink?
The RSPB saw the Paddies coming ...
At the fake owl site beneath the dam at Lake Vyrnwy
Walking on through the forest, alive with the energetic song of Wood Warblers, we soon reached a
clearfell, where a Tree Pipit gave very obliging views as he sat remarkably still for us at the top of
an isolated tree. A little further on, at a feeding station set up by the RSPB and overlooked by a
spacious hide, Chaffinches, Greenfinches, Siskins and, best of all, a beautiful Nuthatch allowed
close observation as they gorged on nuts and suet, just inches from the window. With the sun
setting on the amazing scenery, we departed for the Golfa Hall Hotel near Welshpool, close to the
English border. Here, as we waited for our very interesting Japanese-Welsh fusion dinner, a few of
us were fortunate to see a Common Shrew foraging along the hotel driveway. This mammal,
absent from Ireland, served to show us that Wales has more to offer the nature enthusiast than birds
alone.
Day 2
On our second day in Wales, we set of from Welshpool to the nearby Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust reserve of Dolydd
Hafren. Set in the beautiful Severn Valley, it provided us with excellent views of Little Ringed
Plover (which we had missed at Conwy the day before), Goosander, Common Sandpiper and a pair
of Oystercatchers nesting on a gravel spit. Although too early in the day for raptors (which tend not
to hunt until the sun has warmed the air sufficiently to allow them to soar in thermal updrafts), there
were good numbers of Sand Martins and Swallows in the area. Also very much in evidence were
the large numbers of dragonflies and damselflies which often tempt hungry Hobbies to cross the
English border, though alas none of these stunning little falcons put in an appearance during our
all-too-brief visit.
Leaving Dolydd Hafren, we set of for what undoubtedly became the main event for many of us,
kite feeding time at Gigrin Farm. Gigrin Farm is probably the best place in Britain to see the
amazing Red Kite, as food is provided for them here on a daily basis; the birds now get through a
quarter of a ton of fresh beef per week. Once an abundant scavenger, the Red Kite declined
dramatically in Britain during the 18th and 19th century, due in large part to human persecution,
and eventually Wales became its last stronghold. After conservation efforts managed to stabilise
the population, the Gigrin Farm project was established in 1993 as a joint venture between the
Powell family (which owns the farm), the Kite Country Project and the RSPB to ensure the kites'
survival. Although the highest numbers are recorded in winter, at least 30 individuals were present
at the time of our visit, together with a supporting cast of Buzzards, Ravens and other corvids, and
even a beef-eating Pied Wagtail, all hoping to snatch a few morsels- a spectacle I'm sure no-one
present will forget in a hurry. All this takes place just a few feet in front of a series of huge wooden
hides, so visitors are afforded the unique experience of watching the kites swoop, dive and eat (the
always ate the meat in the air, by the way, never on the ground) at a range so close you can almost
feel the wind from their wings.
After watching this amazing display, we walked part of the nature trail around the farm, where a
family of Common Redstarts, a few Redpolls and even Gigrin Farm's famous near-albino Red Kite
gave good views. Our last stop of the day was the charming town of Dolgellau, where we checked
in to the Royal Ship Hotel in the main square. After an excellent dinner, we rounded the evening
off with a very productive bat walk along the nearby river, courtesy of Frank Doyle and his
amazing bat detector.
Day 3
We started our last day in Wales in the unlikely setting of Dolgellau cemetery, where one pair of
Hawfinches was discovered nesting in a Yew tree. We were all able to stroll across the road
immediately after our breakfast to watch these huge yet elusive members of the finch family go
about their business. A quick scan of the river also revealed an extremely obliging Dipper (of the
unique British race, naturally enough), a welcome addition to our ever-growing trip list.
Our next stop was the magnificent Ynys Hir RSPB Reserve. We had visited this reserve the
previous year, and had been very impressed by the variety of birds present, and I'm glad to report
that this year proved to be no different. Starting at the information centre, we walked through
pristine oak woodland, getting good views of Great Spotted Woodpecker, Common Redstart and
Wood Warbler, while several Jays were also heard, screeching in the distance. We then continued
through a marshy area with several ponds, where quite a few Reed and Sedge Warblers were
present. Most unexpected were the two Barnacle Geese discovered hiding amongst a flock of feral
Canada Geese, quite out of season! From a hide overlooking the muddy estuary, we had a view
over thousands more geese, both Canada and Greylag, as well as hundreds of Shelducks. Also
present was one Snow Goose, (no doubt an escape). On the way back to the information centre, we
enjoyed good views of Treecreeper, Nuthatch and a stunning black-and-white male Pied
Flycatcher. A sunbathing Grass Snake at the side of the trail also surprised those lucky enough to
be near the front of the group, before it slithered off into the undergrowth. The most common of
Britain's three snake species, though seldom seen, the Grass Snake is completely harmless to
humans. During the lunch break, those sitting near the feeder got another surprise in the form of a
Sparrowhawk dashing past in the hope of catching its own lunch.
From Ynys-Hir we drove northwards back to Holyhead, past the amazing scenery of Snowdonia
National Park. Our final two birding stops of the trip were on Anglesey itself. The first of these
was at the Valley RSPB Reserve, located right next to a very busy RAF base, where we heard
several elusive Cetti's Warblers. This bird, a recent colonist of Britain from the Continent and only
rarely seen, is best located by its astonishingly loud song, though a few people did enjoy brief flight
views. Though yet to be recorded in Ireland, it is hoped that this species might soon cross the Irish
Sea and set up home here too, so keep those ears open!
Our last stop was at the well-known South Stack RSPB Reserve. Here we had great views of the
breeding Herring and Lesser Black-backed Gulls, Kittiwakes, Guillemots, Razorbills, while a few
Puffins were seen further out at sea. Two Choughs also put in an appearance, and put on quite an
aerobatic display for us. Though the species is locally quite numerous in the west of Ireland, its
western European stronghold, it was extirpated from the east coast many, many years ago and now
the small population at South Stack in fact represent the geographically closest Choughs to us in
Dublin. Also present was the reserve's long-staying Hooded Crow, presumably a vagrant from
Ireland that has made the Holy Island cliff tops its new home.
All in all, it was a great trip, with a combination of good weather and even better birds (and, quite
significantly, a complete lack of coach accidents) ensuring that everyone had a good time. Many
thanks must go to RSPB Wales, who once again proved to be of invaluable assistance to us in our
preparations and welcomed us into their superb reserves with open arms. Thanks must also go to
the committee members who made all the necessary arrangements and helped to make everything
run as smoothly as possible, not to mention to the elusive Mr. Twosoups, who helped out in other
ways. I'm already looking forward to next year's trip, and I hope you are too – make sure to book
early.
- Stephen McAvoy
- Photos: Ken Kinsella
Broad Lough
18th April 2004
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Our annual outing to Broad Lough took place later than in previous years and was rewarded by a bright fresh April morning that gave excellent light for birding. As we gathered at Rathnew the local Yellowhammers and Goldfinches counted us in from their usual vantage points, and I think they were impressed that as well as the familiar faces we had several members who were on their first outing.
As we prepared to leave the car park in Wicklow there were good numbers of Swallows and House Martins to catch the eye, with several Swallows observed arriving in off the sea, perhaps making their first landfall in Ireland this year. Despite diligent searching by Niall no red rump was sighted.
Our walk up the grass path to Broad Lough was slow progress as we enjoyed the very active passerine population. Stonechat, Linnet, Dunnock and finches perching on the railway fences gave particularly good views. Meadow Pipits were very numerous and gave us great displays of their parachuting song flight. The lark song was constant throughout the morning and was performed from a great height, which made observation of the singers difficult. Candidate for bird of the morning was probably a sole Whitethroat perched on a wire fence, although the scrubby habitat suggests that many more will be seen here as the spring migration continues.
As we made our way through the sweet-smelling gorse, three magnificent male Reed Buntings showed on a bush just feet in front of us; they seemed to be suggesting that they were far more handsome than the Belfast Reed Buntings that we admired so much the previous month.
At sea, while there was plenty of bird activity on the far horizon, there was little of note close to the shore other than a non-breeding Red Throated Diver who looked a little lost, or perhaps left behind.
To the west of Broad Lough the scopes picked up several Grey Herons and Little Egrets perched high on trees. Little Egrets are currently undergoing a big population expansion in Ireland, and last year was the first time the species was recorded breeding at this site. From the looks of things, it seems that it has now become home to a regular summertime egret colony.
It took us all of two hours to reach the shores of Broad Lough, where it was now high tide. Bird numbers on the Lough were low, and many of our winter visitors had left for their northern breeding grounds. There were small numbers of Redshank, Curlew and Mute Swan present, and an albino domestic variety Mallard got our full attention, as did the unfortunate Jay who was being bullied by a Hooded Crow on the far bank. Surprisingly, a distant Kestrel was the sole raptor observed.
It was two o'clock when finally we called it a day, just as the promised 'scattered showers' were making their appearance over the Wicklow Mountains. Broad Lough and its environs proved to be a birding site for all seasons, and with the Ashford by-pass almost completed it will soon be just a short hop for South-side birders.
- Séan Hogan
Photo:Elisabeth Taupinart
Belfast Lough & Oxford Island
Sunday 14th March 2004
Photos: Elisabeth Taupinart
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Grey-coloured coach matching early clouds as we traverse a traffic-free Sunday morning Dublin and continue northwards on the wonderful new M1
motorway, catching sight of a Kestrel against a brightening sky.
Comfort, bun and coffee stop at the Fairways Hotel on Dundalk’s outskirts. Where would we be without the Fairways to set us up for this northerly outing!
On to the day’s first concentrated spotting at Dundalk’s Docks. The sun appears, displaying a fine variety of species spread about the mudflats and in the
water. Some Ruffs in winter plumage, a Gadwall playing hide-and-seek with us around the bow of a coaster and a fishing vessel tied up alongside.
Shelduck, Wigeon, Pochard, Mallard. Also Black-tailed Godwit, Redshank, Cormorant, Lapwing, Oystercatcher and Dunlin, together with
Herring, Black-headed, Common and Great Black-backed Gulls. Before we depart a flock of Golden Plover work their alchemy in the sky.
Northwards again, reaching Belfast docklands in heavy rain which obligingly ceases as we alight
at the R.S.P.B. Reserve.
Iceland Gull, centre image
Out comes the sun to illuminate
the anticipated wide variety of species. Gulls, Pintail, Shoveler and Teal put on a fine show for us, and soon are spotted two of the day’s treats, a
Glaucous Gull and an Iceland Gull together, offering unmatched comparison opportunities. A striking
black-hooded Mediterranean Gull wheeling
overhead completes the gull spectacular, and a Buzzard in quick flight across the reservation prompts the usual uneasy fluttering of the assembled birds.
Up pop male and female Reed Buntings and Linnets, affording excellent close-up views until the appearance of a Sparrowhawk sends them for cover.
Mediterranean Gull - on the edge of the scope
Then it’s time to travel to Oxford Island reserve on the shores of Lough Neagh.
Good views of displaying Great Crested Grebes here, with more distant
sightings of Ruddy Duck, Goldeneye, Tufted Duck, Dabchick, Pochard and Scaup. Closer up views of these Goldeneye and Ruddy Ducks with the ongoing
displaying grebes are to be had from the two hides near the park entrance. Good numbers of Whooper and some Mute Swans together with
Golden Plover
and Fieldfare in the surrounding grassland; quite an unusual combination.
Scaup
The return journey has us again admiring the new Boyne Bridge, now spectacularly floodlight in blue. The sight briefly interrupts the count of the day’s
tally of species, which turns out to be a very satisfactory 78, including some specials. The displaying Great Crested Grebes are bestowed with the ‘best bird’
accolade. However, the Glaucous Gull gets Robert’s vote!
- Dennis McGrane
Great Crested Grebe
Blessington Lakes - 8th February 2004
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Still haunted by the memories of the weather on the day of the previous month’s outing, it was with some degree of trepidation that I woke on the
morning of Sunday 8th February. The viewing areas around the Blessington Lakes offer very little by way of shelter from the elements, and if we were
again to be subjected to torrential rain and hail then there was a chance we would have to arrange a last-minute alternate venue. Happily, upon looking out
of the window I noted that there wasn’t a cloud in the sky: freezing cold, certainly, but nothing that wrapping up warmly couldn’t fix.
We met at our customary starting point, the statue on the main street of Blessington itself, before setting out in convoy to the beginning of our usual
lakeside walking route. Along the way we paused from time to time to watch the flocks of Fieldfare and Redwing in the roadside pastures, cocking
their heads from side to side as they listened to the subterranean rumblings of potential breakfast burrowing below the soil. We also passed a few
mixed finch flocks, but alas despite careful scanning we were unable to locate the famous local wintering Greylag Goose flock that visits this area
every year: we were later to discover that this flock had actually spent the entire day down at the coast near Kilcoole.
When we arrived at the start of our trail we were alarmed to note that the parking situation was now even worse than it had been the year before.
Much of the roadside pull-off had been blocked and so we were forced to leave our cars in a long string stretching down the road. There appeared to have
been an increase in the disturbance to the area this year, too, for there was nothing like the usual number of birds to be heard calling in the trees. We still
managed to pick out a few Chaffinches giving their distinctive metallic ‘fink’ call (it is this call that actually gave rise to the word ‘finch’ somewhere in the mists
of time), and the local Goldcrests were still in fine voice, but there was little else around. Further along the trail a lone Great Tit could be heard calling, and a
couple of Siskins flew high overhead.
Suddenly a familiar buoyant ‘see-see-see’ call could be heard all around us - the Long-tailed Tit brigade had come to save the day! We spent some time
marvelling at these gorgeous little pink, black and white puffballs as they foraged overhead, and they were soon joined by a few of the tiny Goldcrests we had
heard earlier. Watching the acrobatic antics and, yes I’ll admit it, the all-around cuteness of these minute birds would warm even the coldest of hearts on a
frosty winter morning. Pressing on, we shortly came upon a small group of Coal Tits, feeding high in the conifers while a pair of Blue Tits scolded us from a
nearby bush.
When we cleared the trees and walked along the shore of the lake itself we could see that we would have our work cut out for us. In addition to the
now-customary scores of anglers lined up along the banks with their portable shelters there were also several rowing squads out practicing their manoeuvres
on the water itself. As a consequence, what little waterfowl there was to be seen was bunched up in the middle of the lake, making observation
difficult for those without powerful scopes. A couple of Cormorants perched on low branches by the more secluded channel next to the lake added
interest, however, and Pauline Doyle’s keen eyes soon spotted a distant Raven quartering the mountainside opposite. Suddenly not one, but two,
Kestrels zipped over the lake, giving those quick enough on the draw a chance to watch our commonest falcon well in their binoculars.
Right on cue, the Long-tailed Tit cavalry caught up with us, and their timely acrobatics in the low trees by the lakeshore kept everyone amused
while those with scopes scanned and scanned the water for anything of interest. Eventually we came up with views, albeit distant, of Tufted Ducks,
Pochards, Coots and Mallard, while a female Wigeon obligingly flew into range. A small party of Teal soon splashed down in the middle of the lake,
and persistence was rewarded by views of a lone Great Crested Grebe swimming with some Cormorants. It provided a nice end to a difficult day’s
birding, where the main lesson learned was perhaps just how vulnerable birds are to human disturbance in otherwise prime habitat.
- Niall Hatch FlightLines March 2004
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