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Loop Head 1988
The 1988 autumn season was an exceptionally rewarding one. It was the best seawatching year since 1984 and the best for land-birds since 1985. The success of the previous year’s late coverage into November was repeated, with interesting sightings being had up to mid-month. In contrast with 1987, however, few observers suffered the disappointment of working the site without due reward. A week hardly went by that hadn’t plenty of interest. Even the ‘poor Dubs’, who had missed out on the good seabirds on previous visits, had little cause for complaint with what the Bridges of Ross produced. The ‘regulars’ had very few lean days to complain about either. Sixteen species new to the site were recorded, seven of these being rare.
Coverage differed from 1987 in that late August (8 days) was better, September (15 days) was better, October (21 days) worse and November (10 days) slightly better, 54 days in all were covered with ringing taking place on 25 days. For several good reasons, nuptials included, several of last year’s observers weren’t available, which left some bad gaps in the coverage, particularly in October, when some perfect days were missed. Luckily, visiting seawatchers braved bad weather and long journeys to watch at the Bridges, thus covering important periods when locals couldn’t be present.
Weather Patterns:
Autumn 1988 was entirely different to the previous year. S and SE winds, which in previous years produced good arrivals, were recorded in autumn 1987 on about 24 days, though many of these days were spoilt by rain. 1988 had about 40 such days, as well as better weather, especially in mid September and from mid-October to mid-November. Included in this total were E and NE winds as well as SW winds whose origins were continental, as these also produced good movement.
The conditions, which give good seawatching, occurred on several occasions, notably on Aug 20th, Sept 2nd/3rd, 23rd/24th, Oct 6th/7th. These days had gale to storm-force winds whose origins were between Iceland and N. Scotland. Surprisingly, Sept. 11th with only westerly Force 4 –5 in beautiful sunshine gave an excellent seawatch.
Acknowledgements:
Special thanks again go to Canon Burrows and Jim and Margaret Sides who made Kilbaha Cottage available for the second year. Without the house, the type of coverage attained in 1987 and 1988 would not have been possible.
Thanks to :
- Michael Bonfil and Mrs. Bonfil who were again most helpful
- to the regular observers, especially Tony Mee, Gerry Butler and Killian Mullarney
- all who contributed records;
- to all the land-owners who allowed access to their property
- to the many people in Kilbaha who were so hospitable;
- special thanks to my wife, Noreen.
Sponsorship:
Our special thanks to De Beers, Ireland, Ltd., for sponsoring the purchase of amplification equipment, which it is hoped, will improve next year’s ringing performance.
Any records from 1988 or from previous years would be most welcome.
Phil Brennan, 134 Tradaree Court, Shannon, Co. Clare. Tel: 061-361317.
The Season’s Progress:
A Sabine’s Gull on July 31st, the earliest yet recorded at Ross, was a good omen for the season to come. Good numbers of Storm Petrels were counted at this time. Strong winds on Aug. 20th produced a Mediterranean Gull and a Great Shearwater and a Cory’s Shearwater was seen on the 25th. 54 Snipe on Aug. 26th at Kilbaha was unusual and 2 Black Terns were seen on the 27th.
September started with strong winds that produced 4 Long-tailed Skuas on the 2nd, with 64 Leach’s Petrels and another Long-tailed Skua on the 3rd, as well as 9 Sabine’s gull over the two days. The first passerine of interest, a Pied Flycatcher, appeared on the 10th. In contrast to the normal gales associated with good seawatching, the following day, Sept. 11th in a force 4 to 5 wind, an amazing 486 Leach’s Petrels and 10 Sabine’s Gull passed in 4 ½ hours.
Conditions at mid-month favoured the arrival of land-birds, and the first of these were a Turtle Dove and a Pied Flycatcher on the 16th, with the first Garden Warbler of the season on the 17th. An Ortolan Bunting made a brief appearance on the 18th. Another Turtle Dove was seen on the 19th with Lapland Bunting, Redstart and Pied Flycatcher on the 20th. 206 Skylarks and first Short-eared Owl for the site and 9 Wheatear were recorded on the 21st.
Weather again favoured the sea on the 23rd and 24th with many notable sightings. This two-day period featured another Long-tailed Skua, 25 Sabine’s Gulls, 3000 Sooty Shearwaters on the 23rd, 92 Leach’s Petrels, 86 Pomarine Skuas, 3 Little Gulls and many others. The only Ruffs of the season were on the following day. The first Snow bunting appeared on Oct. 1st with a Yellow Wagtail on the 2nd. The seawatching was still not over, and on Oct. 6th and 7th again produced 5 more Long-tailed Skuas, 119 Pomarine Skuas, 80 Leach’s 130 Grey Phalaropes, & 80 Bonxies.
From then on, the weather began to favour land-birds again and the first of these was a Dotterel on the 9th. Red-breasted Flycatcher on the 12th was followed by Little Tern on the 13th . There was a fall 60 Goldcrest on the 14th, but the highlight of the month was a Little Bunting on the 16th with the first Yellow-browed Warlber, another Redstart and Short-eared Owl on the same day. Another Yellow-browed was present on the 17th.
On the 22nd, after an unfortunate gap in the coverage, Twite, Black Redstart and 80 Chaffinches were recorded. Finches were to dominate the end of the month with a further 125 Chaffinch and 75 Siskin on the 26th. Another Yellow-browed Warbler and 3 Whinchat were seen on the same day. Finches again were predominant on the 28th, this time including 27 Goldfinch and 2 Brambling as well as Redwings and Fieldfares. The previous Chaffinch Numbers were surpassed by a staggering 2020 on the 28th. A Jack Snipe was also seen on the 28th. Blackcaps were now regular. 3 Hen Harriers wee present on the 30th but a Buzzard on the 31st was the best raptor of the season. Five Bullfinch on the same day was unusual.
The turn of the month saw 150 Golden Plover on Nov 1st and the last Swallow of the season turned up on the same day. Ireland’s third Pied Wheatear arrived on the 5th and was seen until the 8th. The final rarity of the season was a lovely male Serin on the 12th. A female Eider on the same day was also a first. A Twite and a Water Rail on the 16th were the last birds of interest of the season, the rail being the first record for the site. A late visit on the Dec. 17th produced a Black-throated Diver in the harbour.
In all, 142 species were recorded. Black-throated Diver, Shoveler, Eider, Buzzard, Water Rail, Dotterel, Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper, Jack Snipe, Common Sandpiper, Mediterranean Gull. Short-eared Owl, Yellow Wagtail, Serin, Ortolan Bunting and Little Bunting were recorded for the first time.
Systematic List:
Rarities listed have still to be considered by the Irish Rare Birds Panel. All the rarity records listed in the 1987 report have been accepted by the panel, with the exception of the Wryneck. This record has been held over pending a decision.
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Red-Throated Diver: there were nine records in all in September and October. The first were two birds on Sept. 3rd. One or two birds were normally involved. The peak count was on Sept. 23rd, when 25 were seen, with 7 on the 24th.
Black- Throated Diver: One was on the water in Kilbaha Bay on Dec. 17th. This is the first definite record, though there have been a few previous ‘probable’ sightings, involved flying birds on seawatches.
Great Northern Diver: 3, seen on Sept. 24th, was the first record and there were six other sightings involving single birds.
Fulmar: Very poor passage, though definitely under-recorded. The best days, Aug 20th and 27th had about 200 birds per hour. 150 was the highest day’s total in September, with 37 the next highest for the month. Some days only produced single-figure counts.
Cory’s Shearwater: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 25th.
Great Shearwater: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug 20th.
Sooty Shearwater: A very good autumn passage. 30 on July 30th was the earliest record. 600 per hour were counted on Aug 20th. In September, 900 were seen on the 2nd and 500 on the 24th. An impressive 3000 were counted on Sept. 23rd. 100 were recorded on Oct. 6th.
Manx Shearwater:: Peak counts were as follows …. 1000 per hour on July 30th and 31st; 2500 p.h. on Aug 20th; 3120 p.h. on Aug. 23rd; 1250 the days total on Sept. 11th.
Balearic Shearwater: One was recorded on Sept. 23rd.
: One was recorded on Sept. 23.
Leach’s Petrel: A marvellous total of 749 birds, seen between Sept. 2nd and Oct. 8th, made this the best season since 1984 (when 855 were recorded). Highest daily counts were 64 on Sept. 2nd and 23rd, 80 on Oct. 8th. A staggering 486 were counted in 4 ½ hours on the evening of Sept. 11th. A few were seen to the south of the peninsula this season, with the vast majority as usual at Ross.
: A marvellous total of 749 birds, seen between Sept. 2 and Oct. 8, made this the best season since 1984 (when 855 were recorded). Highest daily counts were 64 on Sept. 2 and 23, 80 on Oct. 8. A staggering 486 were counted in 4 ½ hours on the evening of Sept. 11. A few were seen to the south of the peninsula this season, with the vast majority as usual at Ross.
Storm Petrel: Better-than-usual numbers throughout the season. 1000 and 750 per hour were recorded on July 30th and 31st. There were 401 in 2 hours on Aug 23rd, 500 on Sept. 2nd, 350 on Oct. 6th and 500 on Oct. 7th.
: Better-than-usual numbers throughout the season. 1000 and 750 per hour were recorded on July 30 and 31. There were 401 in 2 hours on Aug 23, 500 on Sept. 2, 350 on Oct. 6 and 500 on Oct. 7.
Gannet: Recorded daily, though in relatively small numbers, 300 on Aug 21st being the best count. Frequently under-recorded.
: Recorded daily, though in relatively small numbers, 300 on Aug 21 being the best count. Frequently under-recorded.
Shag: Usually less than 10 per day, with 18 the best count.
: Usually less than 10 per day, with 18 the best count.
Cormorant: Regular, in small numbers, with 20 the best day’s count.
: Regular, in small numbers, with 20 the best day’s count.
Grey heron: Recorded on 18 days, mainly seen singly. 4 were present on Sept. 19th.
: Recorded on 18 days, mainly seen singly. 4 were present on Sept. 19.
Whooper Swan: A single adult was at Cloghaun Lough on October 30th.
: A single adult was at Cloghaun Lough on October 30.
Barnacle Goose: 20, on Oct. 9th was the only sighting. This flock was seen to wander about the peninsula.
: 20, on Oct. 9was the only sighting. This flock was seen to wander about the peninsula.
Brent Goose: Four records … 2 in both September and October. 30 was the maximum count on Sept. 25th, with 1 to 6 birds involved in the other sightings. All were seen on sea watches off Ross.
Wigeon: Five records, all from Cloghaun Lough. Singles or pairs were usually recorded, with 8 on Nov. 13th.
: Five records, all from Cloghaun Lough. Singles or pairs were usually recorded, with 8 on Nov. 13.: Four records … 2 in both September and October. 30 was the maximum count on Sept. 25, with 1 to 6 birds involved in the other sightings. All were seen on sea watches off Ross.: Five records, all from Cloghaun Lough. Singles or pairs were usually recorded, with 8 on Nov. 13.
Teal: Regulars from Sept. 10th 10 or less were encountered daily in September 10 to 50 in October. Highest counts were in November, with 85 on the 12th and 250 on the 16th.
: Regulars from Sept. 10 10 or less were encountered daily in September 10 to 50 in October. Highest counts were in November, with 85 on the 12 and 250 on the 16.
Mallard: Recorded on 14 days; 15 on Sept. 16th was the maximum.
Shoveler: Two were at Ross bay on Sept. 25th. This is the first recorded sighting of the species in the area.
: Two were at Ross bay on Sept. 25. This is the first recorded sighting of the species in the area.
Eider: A duck was in Ross bay on Nov. 12th. There are very few records of this bird for the Clare Coast.
: A duck was in Ross bay on Nov. 12. There are very few records of this bird for the Clare Coast.: Recorded on 14 days; 15 on Sept. 16 was the maximum.: Two were at Ross bay on Sept. 25. This is the first recorded sighting of the species in the area.: A duck was in Ross bay on Nov. 12. There are very few records of this bird for the Clare Coast.
Common Scoter: There were three records in October. Singletons were seen on the 9th and 16th, with 9 on the 22nd. All were seen from Ross.
: There were three records in October. Singletons were seen on the 9 and 16, with 9 on the 22. All were seen from Ross.
Hen Harrier: Present on 12 days in all, with 2 sightings in September 7 in October and 3 in November. Mainly seen singly, 3 birds on Oct. 30th was the highest
Sparrowhawk: Seen on 16 days, generally involving single birds, with 2 present on one day.
: Seen on 16 days, generally involving single birds, with 2 present on one day.: Present on 12 days in all, with 2 sightings in September 7 in October and 3 in November. Mainly seen singly, 3 birds on Oct. 30 was the highest : Seen on 16 days, generally involving single birds, with 2 present on one day.
Buzzard: One flew westwards between Kilbaha and Fodry on October 31st. This is the first site record.
: One flew westwards between Kilbaha and Fodry on October 31. This is the first site record.
Kestrel: Recorded on 16 days. Generally singles recorded, with 2 seen on three days.
: Recorded on 16 days. Generally singles recorded, with 2 seen on three days.
Merlin: Recorded on 22 days. 1 to 2 were the normal daily counts, but three were present on two days in late October. Several took up residence in the lighthouse area and were seen attacking migrants on several occasions.
: Recorded on 22 days. 1 to 2 were the normal daily counts, but three were present on two days in late October. Several took up residence in the lighthouse area and were seen attacking migrants on several occasions.
Peregrine: Recorded on 17 days. There were two sightings of 2 birds, with the rest seen singly.
Pheasant: One was seen on Oct. 15th.
: One was seen on Oct. 15.
Water Rail: One, at Fodry Bog, on Nov 16th, was the first site record.
: One, at Fodry Bog, on Nov 16, was the first site record.: Recorded on 17 days. There were two sightings of 2 birds, with the rest seen singly. : One was seen on Oct. 15.: One, at Fodry Bog, on Nov 16, was the first site record.
Moorhen: Single birds were seen on three occasions at Cloghaun Lough, with 2 there on Dec. 17th.
Oystercathcer: Normally 35 or less recorded daily, with one count of 70 on Sept. 19th.
: Normally 35 or less recorded daily, with one count of 70 on Sept. 19.: Single birds were seen on three occasions at Cloghaun Lough, with 2 there on Dec. 17. : Normally 35 or less recorded daily, with one count of 70 on Sept. 19.
Ringed Plover: Regularly seen throughout the season. 25 was the best count on Nov. 1st 1 to 15 was the normal daily range.
: Regularly seen throughout the season. 25 was the best count on Nov. 1 1 to 15 was the normal daily range.
Dotterel: One was watched for several hours on the afternoon of October 9th in the open country about a half a mile short of the Light.
: One was watched for several hours on the afternoon of October 9 in the open country about a half a mile short of the Light.
Golden Plover: 12 birds on Sept 4th were the first seen. Overall, they were recorded on 17 days, all but two of these records involving 50 birds or less. 130 on Oct.13th and 150 on Nov 1st were the highest counts.
: 12 birds on Sept 4 were the first seen. Overall, they were recorded on 17 days, all but two of these records involving 50 birds or less. 130 on Oct.13 and 150 on Nov 1 were the highest counts.
Grey Plover: From mid-October there were four sightings of 1 to 3 birds, all in Ross bay.
Lapwing: Single birds on Sept. 18th and 20th were the only records that month. From Oct. 1st when 19 appeared, numbers picked up gradually, peaking at 180 in the 22nd. 650 were present on Nov. 16th
: Single birds on Sept. 18 and 20 were the only records that month. From Oct. 1 when 19 appeared, numbers picked up gradually, peaking at 180 in the 22. 650 were present on Nov. 16
Knot: Six September records, mainly on seawatches and all from Ross, involved 20 birds or less on any day.
: Six September records, mainly on seawatches and all from Ross, involved 20 birds or less on any day.: From mid-October there were four sightings of 1 to 3 birds, all in Ross bay. : Single birds on Sept. 18 and 20 were the only records that month. From Oct. 1 when 19 appeared, numbers picked up gradually, peaking at 180 in the 22. 650 were present on Nov. 16 : Six September records, mainly on seawatches and all from Ross, involved 20 birds or less on any day.
Sanderling: Three were at the Ross bay storm beach on August 26th.
: Three were at the Ross bay storm beach on August 26.
Little Stint: Two were at the pool at Ross on September 4th. This is the first record for the site.
: Two were at the pool at Ross on September 4. This is the first record for the site.
Curlew Sandpiper: Not recorded before this season. There were six records in all. The first was seen to come in off the sea during a seawatch on Sept. 3rd. Single birds were seen on Sept. 11th, a8th, and 21st. Two were seen on the 17th and a further 4 were seen on a seawatch on the 23rd.
Purple Sandpiper: Two birds seen at Ross on Sept. 24th was the only record.
: Two birds seen at Ross on Sept. 24 was the only record.
Dunlin: Regular in September, with 1 to 13 the daily range. Scarce thereafter, with only a further 8 records involving 1 to 6 birds.
: Regular in September, with 1 to 13 the daily range. Scarce thereafter, with only a further 8 records involving 1 to 6 birds.: Not recorded before this season. There were six records in all. The first was seen to come in off the sea during a seawatch on Sept. 3. Single birds were seen on Sept. 11, a8th, and 21. Two were seen on the 17 and a further 4 were seen on a seawatch on the 23.: Two birds seen at Ross on Sept. 24 was the only record.: Regular in September, with 1 to 13 the daily range. Scarce thereafter, with only a further 8 records involving 1 to 6 birds.
Ruff: Four were on flooded fields at the back of Ross bay on Sept. 24th.
: Four were on flooded fields at the back of Ross bay on Sept. 24.
Jack Snipe: One, the first recorded in the area, was flushed at Kilbaha Pool at dawn on October 29th.
Snipe: A very good autumn for the species, with good numbers regular, particularly at Kilbaha Pool. A wisp of 22 on Aug 20th was an interesting sighting for such an early date. There were 10 other counts of 20 or more birds and 50 were present on Sept 10th. Recorded almost daily.
Woodcock: Given the dearth of previous records, their presence on 7 days in the autumn was very satisfactory. The first was seen on Oct. 23rd, with the exception of 5 recorded on Nov. 6th. All the other records were of single birds. Birds were found throughout the area, but most occurred near the Light.
: Given the dearth of previous records, their presence on 7 days in the autumn was very satisfactory. The first was seen on Oct. 23, with the exception of 5 recorded on Nov. 6. All the other records were of single birds. Birds were found throughout the area, but most occurred near the Light.
: A very good autumn for the species, with good numbers regular, particularly at Kilbaha Pool. A wisp of 22 on Aug 20 was an interesting sighting for such an early date. There were 10 other counts of 20 or more birds and 50 were present on Sept 10. Recorded almost daily.: Given the dearth of previous records, their presence on 7 days in the autumn was very satisfactory. The first was seen on Oct. 23, with the exception of 5 recorded on Nov. 6. All the other records were of single birds. Birds were found throughout the area, but most occurred near the Light.
Bar-Tailed Godwit: Much more common than in previous years, being recorded on 22 days in all between Aug 20th and Nov. 15th. In general, daily counts were in single figures, with many counts of singletons. However, there were four counts of between 20 and 30 in September, with the peak on the 20th.
Whimbrel: Present on 11 days from late August to Oct 17th. 1 to 5 were usually recorded, with 7 seen on three days. There were only two records of single birds in October.
: Present on 11 days from late August to Oct 17. 1 to 5 were usually recorded, with 7 seen on three days. There were only two records of single birds in October.
Curlew: Recorded daily, with 10 counts of over 100 birds. The highest monthly totals were 219 on Sept. 20th, 185 on Oct. 13th and 250 on Nov. 16th
: Recorded daily, with 10 counts of over 100 birds. The highest monthly totals were 219 on Sept. 20, 185 on Oct. 13 and 250 on Nov. 16
Spotted Redshank: One was seen at Cloghaun Lough on Sept 16th.
Redshank: Recorded almost daily, 12 being the highest count.
: Recorded almost daily, 12 being the highest count.
Greenshank: Single birds recorded on eight days, mainly at Ross bay, but also at Kilbaha pool and Cloghaun Lough.
: Single birds recorded on eight days, mainly at Ross bay, but also at Kilbaha pool and Cloghaun Lough.: One was seen at Cloghaun Lough on Sept 16.: Recorded almost daily, 12 being the highest count.: Single birds recorded on eight days, mainly at Ross bay, but also at Kilbaha pool and Cloghaun Lough.
Common Sandpiper: Not recorded in previous years, this surprisingly scarce bird turned up twice this season, on Sept. 10th and Oct. 15th, both being seen at Kilbaha harbour.
: Not recorded in previous years, this surprisingly scarce bird turned up twice this season, on Sept. 10 and Oct. 15, both being seen at Kilbaha harbour.
Turnstone: Recorded daily, both scarce in November, when 6 was the maximum count. 100, on Oct. 1st, was the peak, with 40 or less the normal daily tally.
: Recorded daily, both scarce in November, when 6 was the maximum count. 100, on Oct. 1, was the peak, with 40 or less the normal daily tally.
Phalarope Species: 150 birds were recorded between Sept. 2nd and Oct. 7th, most probably Grey Phalaropes. 90 on Oct. 7th was the best count. 5 were seen on Sept. 2nd, 15 on Sept 23rd and 6 on Oct. 6th.
Great Skua: First seen on July 30th and regular on all late August to October seawatches at Ross with a grand total of 339 birds counted on 19 days. 30 were seen o Aug 20th, 70 and 55 on Sept. 23rd & 24th and the peak day’s count was 80 on Oct. 6th.
: First seen on July 30 and regular on all late August to October seawatches at Ross with a grand total of 339 birds counted on 19 days. 30 were seen o Aug 20, 70 and 55 on Sept. 23 & 24 and the peak day’s count was 80 on Oct. 6.
Artic Skua: Early records were 3 and 1 on July 30th and 31st. 150 birds in all were seen on 23 days up to Oct. 16th. 24 on Sept. 3rd was the best count, with 20 on the previous day. 1 to 12 was the normal day’s range.
: Early records were 3 and 1 on July 30 and 31. 150 birds in all were seen on 23 days up to Oct. 16. 24 on Sept. 3 was the best count, with 20 on the previous day. 1 to 12 was the normal day’s range.: 150 birds were recorded between Sept. 2 and Oct. 7, most probably . 90 on Oct. 7 was the best count. 5 were seen on Sept. 2, 15 on Sept 23 and 6 on Oct. 6.: First seen on July 30 and regular on all late August to October seawatches at Ross with a grand total of 339 birds counted on 19 days. 30 were seen o Aug 20, 70 and 55 on Sept. 23 & 24 and the peak day’s count was 80 on Oct. 6.: Early records were 3 and 1 on July 30 and 31. 150 birds in all were seen on 23 days up to Oct. 16. 24 on Sept. 3 was the best count, with 20 on the previous day. 1 to 12 was the normal day’s range.
Pomarine Skua: Recorded on 11 days between Aug 22nd and Oct. 9th, involving 233 birds in all. Some very good day’s counts were had with 51 and 46 on Sept. 23rd and 24th. 59 and 60 were seen on Oct. 6th and 7th. Otherwise 1 to 4 was the normal day’s tally.
: Recorded on 11 days between Aug 22 and Oct. 9, involving 233 birds in all. Some very good day’s counts were had with 51 and 46 on Sept. 23 and 24. 59 and 60 were seen on Oct. 6 and 7. Otherwise 1 to 4 was the normal day’s tally.
Long Tailed Skua: The best year to date, with 11 recorded. All were juveniles. 4 were seen on Sept. 2nd, with single birds on Sept. 3rd and 22nd, with no more than two seen on any day. Some records may not have been received.
: The best year to date, with 11 recorded. All were juveniles. 4 were seen on Sept. 2, with single birds on Sept. 3 and 22, with no more than two seen on any day. Some records may not have been received.
Mediterranean Gull: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20th the first record for the area.
Little Gull: A good season, with 12 seen between Sept. 19th and Oct 22nd, with no more than two seen on any day. Some records may not have been received.
: A good season, with 12 seen between Sept. 19 and Oct 22, with no more than two seen on any day. Some records may not have been received.
Sabine’s Gull: 51 were recorded, making it an excellent season for the species. Birds were seen on 9 days. The first was very early, on July 31st. 44 were counted in September, the best days being the 11th, 23rd and 24th involving 10 and 15 birds respectively. Six were seen in October, the last two on Oct. 7th.
: 51 were recorded, making it an excellent season for the species. Birds were seen on 9 days. The first was very early, on July 31. 44 were counted in September, the best days being the 11, 23 and 24 involving 10 and 15 birds respectively. Six were seen in October, the last two on Oct. 7.: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20 the first record for the area.: A good season, with 12 seen between Sept. 19 and Oct 22, with no more than two seen on any day. Some records may not have been received. : 51 were recorded, making it an excellent season for the species. Birds were seen on 9 days. The first was very early, on July 31. 44 were counted in September, the best days being the 11, 23 and 24 involving 10 and 15 birds respectively. Six were seen in October, the last two on Oct. 7.
Black-Headed Gull: Recorded daily, with 49 birds or less normally seen. 125 on Oct 25th was the peak count.
: Recorded daily, with 49 birds or less normally seen. 125 on Oct 25 was the peak count.
Common Gull: Scarce up to October, when they were regularly recorded. Normally 1 to 10 was the daily tally, with a maximum of 25 seen on Oct. 23rd.
: Scarce up to October, when they were regularly recorded. Normally 1 to 10 was the daily tally, with a maximum of 25 seen on Oct. 23.
Lesser Black-Backed Gull: Usually less than 20 recorded daily. 65 on Sept 19th was the best count.
: Usually less than 20 recorded daily. 65 on Sept 19 was the best count.
Kittiwake: Numbers in September were poor, with only four instances of over 200 birds. 700 were seen on Sept. 23rd. There were three counts of 200 in October and 600 and 800 were counted on Oct. 6th and 7th. There were some very small counts, for instance, only 10 were seen all day on Sept. 9th when there was an otherwise heavy passage.
: Numbers in September were poor, with only four instances of over 200 birds. 700 were seen on Sept. 23. There were three counts of 200 in October and 600 and 800 were counted on Oct. 6 and 7. There were some very small counts, for instance, only 10 were seen on Sept. 9 when there was an otherwise heavy passage.
Sandwich Tern: Regular on seawatches, with a few seen at Kilbaha Bay. Counts usually varied from 2 to 24, with a high of 42 on Aug 22nd.
: Regular on seawatches, with a few seen at Kilbaha Bay. Counts usually varied from 2 to 24, with a high of 42 on Aug 22.
Common Tern: Only specifically identified twice – 5 on Aug 25th and 8 on Sept. 3rd.
: Only specifically identified twice – 5 on Aug 25 and 8 on Sept. 3. ‘Comic’ Tern: Common or Arctic Terns, not specifically identified, were recorded on 9 days in Sept/Oct. There were four counts of 15 to 25 birds. : Common or Arctic Terns, not specifically identified, were recorded on 9 days in Sept/Oct. There were four counts of 15 to 25 birds.
Little Tern: Recorded on 11 days between Aug 22nd and Oct. 9th, involving 233 birds in all. Some very good day’s counts were had with 51 and 46 on Sept. 23rd and 24th. 59 and 60 were seen on Oct. 6th and 7th. Otherwise 1 to 4 was the normal day’s tally.
: Recorded on 11 days between Aug 22 and Oct. 9, involving 233 birds in all. Some very good day’s counts were had with 51 and 46 on Sept. 23 and 24. 59 and 60 were seen on Oct. 6 and 7. Otherwise 1 to 4 was the normal day’s tally.
Black Tern: Three records. Two were seen on Aug 27th and one on Sept 4th, all off the Bridges of Ross.
: Three records. Two were seen on Aug 27 and one on Sept 4, all off the Bridges of Ross.
Razorbill: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20th the first record for the area.
Guillemot: There was no check on numbers in the colony. On seawatches, they were specifically identified on only a few occasions.
: There was no check on numbers in the colony. On seawatches, they were specifically identified on only a few occasions. : One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20 the first record for the area.: There was no check on numbers in the colony. On seawatches, they were specifically identified on only a few occasions.
Puffin: Definitely recorded only twice. One was seen on Sept.23rd and 3 on Oct 8th.
: Definitely recorded only twice. One was seen on Sept.23 and 3 on Oct 8.
‘Auk Species’: Under recorded. Regular in fairly small numbers, with a peak of 150 on Oct. 22nd.
: Under recorded. Regular in fairly small numbers, with a peak of 150 on Oct. 22.
Rock Dove: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20th the first record for the area.
Woodpigeon: Recorded on five days. 8 on Sept 11th was the maximum.
: Recorded on five days. 8 on Sept 11 was the maximum.: One was seen off the Bridges of Ross on Aug. 20 the first record for the area.: Recorded on five days. 8 on Sept 11 was the maximum.
Collared Dove: Ten were in the orchard on May 6th, and they were very scarce in autumn, as usual, with only a single bird seen on Sept. 18th.
: Ten were in the orchard on May 6, and they were very scarce in autumn, as usual, with only a single bird seen on Sept. 18.
Turtle Dove: Two records, both in September. The first was near the Light on the 16th and the other on the main road near the junction with Horse Island on the 19th.
Short-Eared Owl: Two records, which were the first for the site. Both were seen in the lighthouse area, on Sept. 21st and Oct. 16th.
: Two records, which were the first for the site. Both were seen in the lighthouse area, on Sept. 21 and Oct. 16. : Two records, both in September. The first was near the Light on the 16 and the other on the main road near the junction with Horse Island on the 19.: Two records, which were the first for the site. Both were seen in the lighthouse area, on Sept. 21 and Oct. 16.
Skylark: 206 on Sept. 21st at the Light and 100 on Oct. 9th were unusually high counts. The first counts were had at dawn as rain cleared, the birds then heading off south-westwards. Numbers otherwise were in the 2 to 46 range. In all, a good autumn for the species, with them regularly recorded.
: 206 on Sept. 21 at the Light and 100 on Oct. 9 were unusually high counts. The first counts were had at dawn as rain cleared, the birds then heading off south-westwards. Numbers otherwise were in the 2 to 46 range. In all, a good autumn for the species, with them regularly recorded.
Swallow: Over 100 were present on Sept. 4th. September numbers were otherwise poor, with 31 the highest day’s total. The last September bird was on the 21st. There was only one October record, 2 birds on the 3rd. There was a late sighting of a singleton on Nov. 1st.
: Over 100 were present on Sept. 4. September numbers were otherwise poor, with 31 the highest day’s total. The last September bird was on the 21. There was only one October record, 2 birds on the 3. There was a late sighting of a singleton on Nov. 1.
Meadow Pipit: Again plentiful. There were 10 counts of 100 or more. The period from Sept. 17th to 21st was particularly good, with 150+ regular, and 269 the maximum October and November numbers weren’t as good, with the exception of 200 on Oct. 2nd and 160 on Nov. 16th..
: Again plentiful. There were 10 counts of 100 or more. The period from Sept. 17 to 21 was particularly good, with 150+ regular, and 269 the maximum October and November numbers weren’t as good, with the exception of 200 on Oct. 2 and 160 on Nov. 16..
Rock Pipit: Plentiful on the shore, the maximum being 52 on Sept. 20th. Scarce in November.
: Plentiful on the shore, the maximum being 52 on Sept. 20. Scarce in November.
Yellow Wagtail: A single bird appeared briefly over Lillis’ on Oct. 2nd. This was the first record of the species for the area.
: A single bird appeared briefly over Lillis’ on Oct. 2. This was the first record of the species for the area.
Grey Wagtail: Seen daily, with 7 the peak daily count.
Pied wagtail: 5 to 20 regular. 37 on Oct. 19th was the maximum count. There were no records of White Wagtails.
: 5 to 20 regular. 37 on Oct. 19 was the maximum count. There were no records of White Wagtails.
Wren : Resident
: Seen daily, with 7 the peak daily count.: 5 to 20 regular. 37 on Oct. 19 was the maximum count. There were no records of White Wagtails.
Dunnock: Resident. 21 was the daily maximum.
: Resident. 21 was the daily maximum.
Robin: 26 was the maximum daily count.
Black Redstart: Nine or ten records, as follows …October – singles on October 2nd and 25th, 2 on 29th/30th with one remaining to the 31st. There were 4 on Nov 12th. The bird on Oct. 25th was seen opposite Lillis’; all the others were at the Lighthouse.
: Nine or ten records, as follows … – singles on October 2 and 25, 2 on 29/30 with one remaining to the 31st. There were 4 on Nov 12. The bird on Oct. 25 was seen opposite Lillis’; all the others were at the Lighthouse.: 26 was the maximum daily count.: Nine or ten records, as follows … – singles on October 2 and 25, 2 on 29/30 with one remaining to the 31st. There were 4 on Nov 12. The bird on Oct. 25 was seen opposite Lillis’; all the others were at the Lighthouse.
Redstart: Two records. A female was the lighthouse on Sept. 20th and a juvenile male was there on Oct 16th.
: Two records. A female was the lighthouse on Sept. 20 and a juvenile male was there on Oct 16.
Whinchat: Five birds were recorded, all in October … one on the 22nd/23rd…. 3 on the 26th…. 1 on the 28th. All were in Kilbaha.
: Five birds were recorded, all in October … one on the 22/23…. 3 on the 26…. 1 on the 28. All were in Kilbaha.
Stonechat: Recorded daily in good numbers, with 10 to 20 at least each day. 20 were logged on both Oct. 15th and 31st.
: Recorded daily in good numbers, with 10 to 20 at least each day. 20 were logged on both Oct. 15 and 31.
Wheatear: Recorded on about 20 days, with 1 to 4 generally involved. 8 and 9 were present on Sept. 20th/21st. The latest bird was seen on Oct. 26th.
: Recorded on about 20 days, with 1 to 4 generally involved. 8 and 9 were present on Sept. 20/21. The latest bird was seen on Oct. 26.
Pied Wheatear: A male frequented the farms east of the orchard from Nov. 5th to 8th. This was the third Irish record of this eastern species.
Blackbird: Up to 20 were recorded daily in Sept/Oct. From Oct 26th onwards, 18 to 25 were regular. An influx of 74 was recorded on Nov 6th. An obvious migrant, weighing only 77 grams, was trapped on Nov. 1st.
Fieldfare: 4 birds on Oct. 9th was the first record. 1 to 30 were involved in the daily counts from then until Nov 6th, when 42 were recorded. 5 were present on Nov 13th and the highest count was 180 on Dec 17th.. An unremarkable season for this species.
: 4 birds on Oct. 9 was the first record. 1 to 30 were involved in the daily counts from then until Nov 6, when 42 were recorded. 5 were present on Nov 13 and the highest count was 180 on Dec 17. An unremarkable season for this species.
Song Thrush: Scarce in September 10 being the daily maximum. Almost absent late in the month and scarce up to Oct. 26th, with 7 the maximum. Influxes in late October produced a very good count of 125 on the 28th with 50 on the 29th; arrivals continued into November when 38 were recorded on the 6th.
: Scarce in September 10 being the daily maximum. Almost absent late in the month and scarce up to Oct. 26, with 7 the maximum. Influxes in late October produced a very good count of on the28with 50 on the 29; arrivals continued into November when 38 were recorded on the 6.: Up to 20 were recorded daily in Sept/Oct. From Oct 26 onwards, 18 to 25 were regular. An influx of 74 was recorded on Nov 6. An obvious migrant, weighing only 77 grams, was trapped on Nov. 1.: 4 birds on Oct. 9 was the first record. 1 to 30 were involved in the daily counts from then until Nov 6, when 42 were recorded. 5 were present on Nov 13 and the highest count was 180 on Dec 17. An unremarkable season for this species.: Scarce in September 10 being the daily maximum. Almost absent late in the month and scarce up to Oct. 26, with 7 the maximum. Influxes in late October produced a very good count of on the28with 50 on the 29; arrivals continued into November when 38 were recorded on the 6.
Redwing: First appeared on Sept (the 93 birds). Numbers wee irregular thereafter, with from 1 to 76 the daily tally. A poor autumn for the species.
Mistle Thrush: Probably bred. Present on 21 days, which is a more regular occurrence than in previous autumns. 5 was the maximum present. There were no obvious influxes as had been the case in the autumn of 1987.
: Probably bred. Present on 21 days, which is a more regular occurrence than in previous autumns. 5 was the maximum present. There were no obvious influxes as had been the case in the autumn of 1987.: First appeared on Sept (the 93 birds). Numbers wee irregular thereafter, with from 1 to 76 the daily tally. A poor autumn for the species.: Probably bred. Present on 21 days, which is a more regular occurrence than in previous autumns. 5 was the maximum present. There were no obvious influxes as had been the case in the autumn of 1987.
Grasshopper Warbler: Three different birds were reeling in the Kilbaha/Fodry area in the summer. A juvenile trapped in the Heligoland on Sept 10th was the first record of the species outside of the breeding season.
: Three different birds were reeling in the Kilbaha/Fodry area in the summer. A juvenile trapped in the Heligoland on Sept 10 was the first record of the species outside of the breeding season.
Sedge Warbler: Present in the summer. No autumn records.
: Present in the summer. No autumn records.
Garden Warbler: Seven recorded. Single birds were noted on Sept 17th, 20th, 30th and Oct 15th, 17th. Two were present on Oct. 14th 6 were ringed.
Blackcap: 2 recorded from Oct 16th onwards. Present on 6 days in October, with 3 the maximum on the 29th. Present on 6 days up to mid-November, with 4 the maximum on the 6th. 11 were ringed.
: 2 recorded from Oct 16 onwards. Present on 6 days in October, with 3 the maximum on the 29. Present on 6 days up to mid-November, with 4 the maximum on the 6. 11 were ringed.
Yellow-Browed Warbler: Three records. Single birds were trapped in Lillis’ haggard on Oct 16th and 17th. Another was at the Sallows on Oct. 26th. Eight birds in all have been recorded since 1985.
: Three records. Single birds were trapped in Lillis’ haggard on Oct 16 and 17. Another was at the Sallows on Oct. 26. Eight birds in all have been recorded since 1985.: Seven recorded. Single birds were noted on Sept 17, 20, 30 and Oct 15, 17. Two were present on Oct. 14 6 were ringed.: 2 recorded from Oct 16 onwards. Present on 6 days in October, with 3 the maximum on the 29. Present on 6 days up to mid-November, with 4 the maximum on the 6. 11 were ringed.: Three records. Single birds were trapped in Lillis’ haggard on Oct 16 and 17. Another was at the Sallows on Oct. 26. Eight birds in all have been recorded since 1985.
Chiffchaff: Present on 22 days from Sept. 16th, with 1 to 3 birds the usual daily tally. 5 on Nov 16th was the best count.
: Present on 22 days from Sept. 16, with 1 to 3 birds the usual daily tally. 5 on Nov 16 was the best count.
Willow Warbler: Present on 13 days in the autumn up to Oct 12th, with a single bird seen in May. 2 on Oct was the maximum.
: Present on 13 days in the autumn up to Oct 12, with a single bird seen in May. 2 on Oct was the maximum.
Goldcrest: Another good reason for this bird. First recorded on Sept. 10th. A small arrival was obvious in mid-September and 23 were seen on the 20th. They were scarce again until Oct 3d, when 12 were present. The best influx was on Oct 14th, when 60 appeared, and 30 were logged the following day. Late October and early November saw them regular in single figures. A bird bearing a ring was still present on Dec 27th. 64 were ringed.
: Another good reason for this bird. First recorded on Sept. 10. A small arrival was obvious in mid-September and 23 were seen on the 20. They were scarce again until Oct 3d, when 12 were present. The best influx was on Oct 14, when 60 appeared, and 30 were logged the following day. Late October and early November saw them regular in single figures. A bird bearing a ring was still present on Dec 27. 64 were ringed.
Red –Breasted Flycatcher: A juvenile, the third record for the area and the first since 1985, was seen and later trapped at the Sallows on Oct. 9th.
: A juvenile, the third record for the area and the first since 1985, was seen and later trapped at the Sallows on Oct. 9.
Pied Flycatcher: There were three September records, contrasting with the complete absence of the commoner Spotted Flycatcher. Single birds were involved and they were found on the Sallows, the Sycamores and the Light, respectively. The last bird was seen to be in a very tired condition.
: There were three September records, contrasting with the complete absence of the commoner Spotted Flycatcher. Single birds were involved and they were found on the Sallows, the Sycamores and the Light, respectively. The last bird was seen to be in a very tired condition.
Coal Tit: Present on 5 days. Singletons were seen on Sept 18th and 30th as well as Oct 1st. Three were seen on Oct 2nd and 3rd.
Blue Tit: Recorded daily, in small numbers. 28 on Sept 21st was the maximum count.
: Recorded daily, in small numbers. 28 on Sept 21 was the maximum count.: Present on 5 days. Singletons were seen on Sept 18 and 30 as well as Oct 1. Three were seen on Oct 2 and 3. Recorded daily, in small numbers. 28 on Sept 21 was the maximum count.
Great Tit: Recorded daily, in small numbers, 6 being the maximum daily total.
Magpie: Continuing to thrive, with up to 40 recorded daily. Most roost in the sycamore grove.
: Continuing to thrive, with up to 40 recorded daily. Most roost in the sycamore grove.
Chough: 3 to 10 seen daily. 19 on Sept 20th was the maximum.
Jackdaw: A flock of 70 was seen to disappear out to sea in a south-westerly direction on Oct 14th. 150 were counted on both Oct 14th and 15th, with 98 of that total at the Light on the 15th. Movement through the peninsula was obvious on those days. There was one other count of 100+ on Oct 23rd, with 20 to 80 otherwise recorded daily.
Rook: Recorded daily, with 35 the maximum count.
Hooded Crow: Recorded daily, with 20 the maximum count.
Raven: Recorded most days. Parties of 4 to 5 were regular and 9 was the maximum daily count.
Recorded most days. Parties of 4 to 5 were regular and 9 was the maximum daily count.
Starling: Good numbers were seen throughout the autumn, with 200+ recorded on 10 days, 700 on Sept 21st was the peak.
Good numbers were seen throughout the autumn, with 200+ recorded on 10 days, 700 on Sept 21 was the peak.
House Sparrow: Up to 40 were recorded daily.
Up to 40 were recorded daily.
Tree Sparrow: There were no checks on their breeding status, but autumn levels were almost back to 1985 levels after two very poor years. Birds were recorded on 18 days from Sept 17th onwards with maximum of 10 on Oct 28th.
Chaffinch: An exceptional season for this bird. 3 on Sept 16th and one on the 30th were the only records for the month. From mid-October they became regular, with larger-than-usual arrivals, starting with 80 on the 22nd. This was eclipsed by 350 on the 28th and an amazing 2020 on the 29th, with 230 on the following day and 380 on Nov. 11th. On these days birds could be seen arriving from the North near the lighthouse and streaming eastwards along the peninsula. Of the birds trapped at this time, all were large birds, with many big enough to be of the nominate (northern) race, f .c. coelebs. The September and early October birds were of the smaller Irish/British race, f.c. hortensis.
An exceptional season for this bird. 3 on Sept 16 and one on the 30 were the only records for the month. From mid-October they became regular, with larger-than-usual arrivals, starting with 80 on the 22. This was eclipsed by 350 on the 28 and an amazing on the 29, with 230 on the following day and 380 on Nov. 11. On these days birds could be seen arriving from the North near the lighthouse and streaming eastwards along the peninsula. Of the birds trapped at this time, all were large birds, with many big enough to be of the nominate (northern) race, f .c. coelebs. The September and early October birds were of the smaller Irish/British race, f.c. hortensis.
Brambling: Four records … one on Oct. 16th, 2 on Oct 28th, 3 on Nov 6th and 2 on Nov 16th.
Greenfinch: Nine records, from Oct 3rd onwards. 2 to 5 were the usual counts, with 8 on Nov. 6th.
Nine records, from Oct 3 onwards. 2 to 5 were the usual counts, with 8 on Nov. 6.
Goldfinch: The season contrasted favourably with previous ones, with birds present on 14 days from Oct. 15th onwards. 10 or less were seen on most days, but 27 were recorded on Oct. 28th, co-inciding with the arrival of other finches.
Siskin: Present on 11 days from Oct 22nd onwards, when 15 were seen. An unprecedented 75 arrived on the 26th, co-inciding with he first notable Chaffinch influx. 37 were seen on the 28th, with 18 the following day. 1 to 9 was regular up to Nov. 9th.
Redpoll: In September, single birds were recorded on the 16th and 20th, in October on the 9th and in November on the 1st and 5th. 15 were in fields above the ‘top farm’ on Sept 19th.
Linnet: Recorded almost daily, 185 on Sept 19th was the peak, with 160 on Oct. 3rd the highest count for that month. Fewer thereafter with less than 30 daily in late October and still scarcer in November.
Serin: An adult male was seen at the orchard on Nov 12th after a heavy downpour. It was watched for only a minute before disappearing eastwards.
An adult male was seen at the orchard on Nov 12 after a heavy downpour. It was watched for only a minute before disappearing eastwards.
Twite: Two records. One was flushed above the cliffs near the lighthouse on Oct 22nd and a record was seen at Ross bay on Nov. 16th
Two records. One was flushed above the cliffs near the lighthouse on Oct 22 and a record was seen at Ross bay on Nov. 16
Bullfinch: 5 birds arrived on Oct 31st and single birds were present on Nov. 2nd and 5th, presumably remnants of the earlier arrival. The only previous record was of a single bird in 1985.
5 birds arrived on Oct 31 and single birds were present on Nov. 2 and 5, presumably remnants of the earlier arrival. The only previous record was of a single bird in 1985.
Lapland Bunting: One was at the lighthouse on September 20th.
Snow Bunting: A flock of about 35 remained in the lighthouse area into early January. From Oct 1st onwards, birds were recorded on nine days. 1 to 2 was the normal number, but 8 were seen on Oct. 9th. 6 of these were at Ross, 2 at the Light.
Reed Bunting: Recorded daily. 60 on Oct. 3rd was the highest count.
Little Bunting: A juvenile was trapped beside the hedge bordering Bonfil’s garden, Kilbaha, on Oct. 16th.
—————————————–
Omissions and Errata from Previous report
Phalarope Species: Most likely Grey Phalarope. These records were accidentally omitted from last year’s report. 11 probable Grey Phalaropes were seen on Sept. 12th. Specifically identified Grey Phalaropes were seen on five days from Oct 4th to 9th, involving 46 birds in all, with the final record, a singleton, on Oct 16th.
Most likely . These records were accidentally omitted from last year’s report. 11 probable Grey Phalaropes were seen on Sept. 12. Specifically identified Grey Phalaropes were seen on five days from Oct 4 to 9, involving 46 birds in all, with the final record, a singleton, on Oct 16.
Lapland Bunting: It is not known whether the bird seen on Sept 12th 1987 was submitted to the Irish Rare Birds Panel or not.
It is not known whether the bird seen on Sept 12 1987 was submitted to the Irish Rare Birds Panel or not.
Ringing Totals, Loop Head, 1988
|
Birds Ringed loop Head
|
May
|
June
|
Aug
|
Sept
|
Oct
|
Nov
|
total
|
|
Storm Petrel
|
59
|
59
|
|||||
|
Cormorant
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Sparrowhawk
|
1
|
1
|
2
|
||||
|
Merlin
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Curlew Sandpiper
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Dunlin
|
6
|
6
|
|||||
|
Curlew
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Redshank
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Woodpigeon
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Swallow
|
1
|
9
|
1
|
11
|
|||
|
Meadow Pipit
|
3
|
2
|
29
|
7
|
41
|
||
|
Rock Pipit
|
4
|
4
|
|||||
|
Grey Wagtail
|
2
|
3
|
5
|
||||
|
Pied Wagtail
|
1
|
6
|
3
|
10
|
|||
|
Wren
|
6
|
6
|
|||||
|
Dunnock
|
5
|
5
|
|||||
|
Robin
|
3
|
23
|
15
|
2
|
43
|
||
|
Stonechat
|
9
|
12
|
4
|
25
|
|||
|
Wheatear
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Fieldfare
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
||||
|
Blackbird
|
16
|
18
|
12
|
46
|
|||
|
SongThrush
|
11
|
14
|
11
|
36
|
|||
|
Redwing
|
6
|
1
|
7
|
||||
|
Grasshopper Warbler
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Garden Warbler
|
2
|
4
|
6
|
||||
|
Blackcap
|
7
|
4
|
11
|
||||
|
Chiffchaff
|
4
|
7
|
3
|
14
|
|||
|
Willow Warbler
|
6
|
2
|
8
|
||||
|
Yellow-Browed Warbler
|
2
|
2
|
|||||
|
Red Breasted Flycatcher
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Pied Flycatcher
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Goldcrest
|
18
|
41
|
5
|
64
|
|||
|
CoalTit
|
1
|
4
|
5
|
||||
|
Blue Tit
|
7
|
17
|
33
|
1
|
58
|
||
|
Great Tit
|
4
|
5
|
10
|
19
|
|||
|
Magpie
|
1
|
2
|
1
|
4
|
|||
|
Jackdaw
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Starling
|
12
|
5
|
5
|
22
|
|||
|
House Sparrow
|
1
|
1
|
5
|
4
|
11
|
||
|
Tree Sparrow
|
4
|
1
|
5
|
||||
|
Chaffinch
|
115
|
12
|
127
|
||||
|
Bullfinch
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Greenfinch
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Goldfinch
|
3
|
1
|
1
|
||||
|
Siskin
|
1
|
4
|
5
|
||||
|
Redpoll Lesser
|
1
|
2
|
3
|
||||
|
Linnet
|
1
|
21
|
16
|
4
|
42
|
||
|
Reed Bunting
|
10
|
51
|
3
|
64
|
|||
|
Little Bunting
|
1
|
1
|
|||||
|
Yearly Totals
|
5
|
59
|
26
|
174
|
441
|
92
|
797
|
Bird Ringing: 793 birds of 49 species were ringed in 1988. Most of these were trapped from September to mid-November, though some Storm Petrels were tape-lured in June. Totals were well up on last year’s tally of 468, despite the fact that most of the ringing was done by two people.
: 793 birds of 49 species were ringed in 1988. Most of these were trapped from September to mid-November, though some Storm Petrels were tape-lured in June. Totals were well up on last year’s tally of 468, despite the fact that most of the ringing was done by two people.
The big influx of Chaffinches at the end of October is well reflected in the totals. Goldcrest numbers were high for the second year in succession and numbers of Garden Warbler, Blackcap, Linnet and Reed Bunting were also good, while Swallows were down and Willow Warblers continue to be low. Five Tree Sparrows ringed reflected their return to 1985 levels.
The Little Bunting was the rarest bird handled. Red-breasted Flycatcher was eventually added to the ringing list – the two previous ‘good’ birds ringed were two Yellow-browed Warblers, Merlin and Pied Flycatcher. As well as the Little Bunting and Red-Breasted Flycatcher, seven others were ringed for the first time. These included Curlew Sandpiper, Curlew, Dunlin, Grasshopper Warbler, Bullfinch, Wheatear and Goldfinch.
Recoveries:
3365057 Storm Petrel 4 02.08.1987 Ballygalley Head, Antrim
V 26.06.1988 Loop Head
V 09.08.1988 Sanda Island, South Kintyre,
Stratchclyde, Scotland (Tape Lured)
RV45812 Song Thrush 3 27.10.1987 Loop Head
X 10.03.1988 O’Brien’s Bridge, Co. Clare
(Found dead, 75 Km.)
(Song Thrushes had begun to arrive the day before this bird was ringed. The influx continued over the next two weeks. This recovery shows that at least this bird wintered in Clare.)
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April 2006
Sunday 30th April 2006
There were 63 Whimbrel flying in a North West direction over
Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Friday 29th April 2006
There were six Swifts over Ennis Town.
One Dipper was seen on the Claureen River at Kilmaley.
Thursday 27th April 2006
One House Martin was in Quin village this morning.
A Grasshopper Warbler was heard singing at Darragh.
One male Blackcap was singing at Ballyallia Lake.
Wednesday 26th April 2006
There were 28 Whimbrel seen flying North west over Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One male Blackcap was heard singing at the edge of the Lees Road Wood close to Ballymacguiggan Lake.
Tuesday 25th April 2006
There was a flock of 54 Whimbrel at Poulnasherry Bay.
Monday 24th April 2006
There was one male Blackcap singing at Ballyallia Lake this evening.
Sunday 23rd April 2006
There were two Sedge Warblers singing this morning on the River Fergus near Doora Bridge. One Peregrine and one Raven were at Quin.
Two flocks of 55 Whimbrel flew north west over Ballycar,Newmarket-on-Fergus this evening. There were two male Blackcaps singing at Ballyallia Lake, another male at Ballymacguiggan near the Lees Road, Wood in Ennis and one male at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Saturday 22nd April 2006
The drake Green-winged Teal is still at Bell Harbour (Tim Griffin). A second year Glaucous Gull was at Loop Head along with one Peregrine four Chough and Tree Sparrow.There were three Swifts near Knockhogan on the Quin/Ennis road this evening (these birds are about one week early as Swifts normally arrive here in Clare the first weekend of May).
There was one Blackcap singing at Darragh this morning.
Friday 21st April 2006
One male Blackcap was singing at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One Dipper was seen on the Claureen River, Kilmaley.
Thursday 20th April 2006
There were two male Blackcaps singing near Mullaghmore in the Burren.
Also three pairs of Yellowhammer were seen in this locality and another male along the green road.
There was noticable Lesser Black-backed Gull migration over the county today.
Wednesday 19th April 2006
There were six Whimbrel near Seafield, Quilty.
Tuesday 18th April 2006
There were three Black Throated Divers off Bishop’s Quarter in Ballyvaughan Bay.
Monday 17th April 2006
There was one Blackcap at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Sunday 16th April 2006
There was a Cuckoo at Darragh and one Raven.
Saturday 15th April 2006
There were six Black-throated Divers off Finvarra Point.
Friday 14th April 2006
One Buzzard was in the Burren near Mullaghmore (Meehan Family).
One male Yellowhammer was near Carran.
There was a male Blackcap singing at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One male Yellowhammer was near Carran.
There was a male Blackcap singing at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Thursday 13th April 2006
Cuckoos were heard calling in many parts of the county today.
There were two Jays on the Lees Road in Ennis.
Wednesday 12th April 2006
There were two Little Egrets flying over the bridge in Clarecastle this evening.
Tuesday 11th April 2006
There was one Little Egret at Moyasta, Poulnasherry Bay.
There was one Little Egret at Moyasta, Poulnasherry Bay.
Monday 10th April 2006
There was a Dipper at the Claureen River, Kilmaley.
Sunday 9th April 2006
The drake Green-winged Teal was still at Bell Harbour.
The Blackcap was stilll singing at Ballycar.
The Blackcap was stilll singing at Ballycar.
There was one Jay on the Lees Road Wood in Ennis.
Saturday 8th April 2006
There was one male Blackcap singing at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Friday 7th April 2006
There was a Peregrine at Lough Donnell near Quilty.
Thursday 6th April 2006
There was a Buzzard at Poulnasherry Bay (Meehan Family).
There was one female Hen Harrier and seven Little Egrets at Poulnasherry Bay. One Raven was near Taylor’s Hill, Kilrush.
Leave a comment There was a Buzzard at Poulnasherry Bay (Meehan Family).
There was one female Hen Harrier and seven Little Egrets at Poulnasherry Bay. One Raven was near Taylor’s Hill, Kilrush.
Wednesday 5th April 2006
There was one Willow Warbler on the Kilrush Road in Ennis and anotherr at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus. Two Water Rails were heard calling at Ballycar Lough.
One Swallow in Bodyke, one in the centre of Ennis and two Sandmartins on the Fergus River in the middle of Ennis.
There was a Hen Harrier near Clahane.
Tuesday 4th April 2006
There was a Swallow on the Kilrush Road in Ennis this morning.
There was one Common Sandpiper, one Raven, two Grey Wagtails and one Sandmartin at the Quay in Clarecastle. There were four Little Egrets at Poulnasherry Bay along with 150 Brent Geese and one female Wheatear. 
Common Sandpiper John N Murphy
Monday 3rd April 2006
There was one Swallow just outside Quin village this morning (9.10).
Sunday 2nd April 2006
One Swallow was at Ballymorris, Cratloe.
Two Little Egrets were at the Shannon Airport Lagoon.
Ballyvaughan
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