One pale phased Arctic Skua was at Lahinch.
There were 200 Manx Shearwaters, one summer plumaged Great Northern Diver and one summer
Red-throated Diver flying north at Black Head.
Two Little Egrets and four Curlew were near Aughinish Island, Corronroo Bay.
There were 25 Arctic Terns nesting on a small island in Ballyvaughan Bay.
One Common Sandpiper was at Lough Bunny.
Two Little Egrets were at the Turloughs in Mullaghmore.
Over 50 Swifts were at Lough Atedaun.
Wednesday 8th June 2011
Tuesday 7th June 2011
Two Bonxies and one Sooty shearwater were off the Bridges of Ross.
A second year Iceland Gull was at Seafield, Quilty.
Three Common Sandpipers and a Yellowhammer were at Mullaghmore, the Burren.
One Common Sandpiper and a Jay were at Lough Bunny.
Sunday 5th June 2011
One second-summer White-winged Black Tern was at Lough Atedaun (Dave McNamara, John N Murphy & Brian Finnegan).
Also at Lough Atedaun was a Hobby (John N Murphy & Brian Finnegan) a pair of Shoveler and one Little Egret.
May 2011
List of Contributors:
Joe Adamson, Gerry Butler, Dermot Breen, Alan Clewes, Austin Cooney, Jeff Copner, Ciaran Cronin, Chris Cullen, Paul Gaughran, Clodagh Glasgow, Tim Griffin, Kathy & Dave Gorman, Davey Farrar, Brian Finnegan, James Hayes, Barry Howell, Nuala Lynch, Tom Lynch, Finbarr MacGabhann, Dave McNamara, Jim Nolan, John N Murphy, Frank O ‘Duffy, Bill Ryan, Pearse Ryan, Ercus Stewart , Tom Tarpey, Paul Troake and Howard Williams.
Thursday 19th May 2011
A Kingfisher was on the River Fergus close to Ennis town centre.
Seven Blackcap were at Lees Road and two more were singing at Ballyallia.
Tuesday 17th May 2011
The Garganey pair were still at Ballyallia Lake again today.
Monday 16th May 2011
A second-year female WHITE-TAILED EAGLE was near Mount Shannon on Lough Derg today (Tom Tarpey).
The male and female Garganey were still at Ballylallia Lake, Ennis.
One second-year Iceland Gull was at Kilbaha Harbour, Loop Head.
A Grasshopper Warbler was also at the Loop.
Garganeys at Ballyallia Lake © John N Murphy
Iceland Gull at Kilbaha © John N Murphy
Sunday 15th May 2011
One male and female Garganey were at Ballyallia Lake this afternoon, near the River Fergus exit on the town side of the lake.
The second-year Glaucous Gull was still at Seafield, Quilty.
At the Dawn Chorus outing to the Mullaghmore area this morning there were a pair of Yellowhammer, seven Backcap, one Little Egret, a Cuckoo and four Common Gulls.
One Long-eared Owl was at dawn chorus near Ballyvaughan this morning.
One Kingfisher and three Spotted Flycatchers were on the River Fergus, north of Lough Inchiquin.
One Great Northern Diver and two summer plumaged Red-throated Divers were at Liscannor Bay.
Over sixty Swift were over Ballyallia Lake this evening.
Spotted Flycatcher near Lough Inchiquin © Dave McNamara
Saturday 14th May 2011
A Turtle Dove was at Loop Head this morning, along with ten Collared Doves, 32 Rock Doves, one Whitethroat, one Willow Warbler, seven Wheatears, 15 Sedge Warblers, four Chough and a Raven.
Over 2,500 Manx Shearwaters, two Puffins and six Whimbrels were at the Bridges of Ross.
Six Blackcap were singing in Lees Road Wood.
Turtle Dove at Kilbaha © John N Murphy
Tuesday 10th May 2011
Four Blackcap were singing in Lees Road Wood and another at the back of the CBS Primary along the banks of the Fergus.
Monday 9th May 2011
A small flock of 15 Whimbrel flew over Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Sunday 8th May 2011
One Hobby was at Seafield, Quilty today (Jeff Copner), along the second-summer Glaucous Gull
and 12 White Wagtails.
There were 32 Great Northern Divers at Black Head.
One Common Sandpiper was at lough Bunny.
One little Egret was at lough Muchanagh.
Glaucous Gull on Seafield Beach © Jeff Copner
Saturday 7th May 2011
Two Yellowhammers were at Commons North in the Burren.
Friday 6th May 2011
One second-year Glaucous Gull, seven White Wagtails and 100 Whimbrel were at Seafield, Quilty.
Six Blackcaps were singing in Lees Road Wood and two more were at along the Fergus at the back of Cusack Park.
Glaucous Gull at Seafield © Dave McNamara
Thursday 5th May 2011
One Kingfisher was on the River Fergus in Ennis.
Wednesday 4th May 2011
One Crossbill flew over Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
At the Shannon Airport Lagoon this evening there were four Little Egrets and 100 Black-tailed Godwits on the lagoon itself, while on the edge of the mudflat shoreline there were 50 Whimbrel.
Two Kingfishers were on the Rine River, Quin.
One Jay was at Dromoland Castle Estate.
Whimbrel calling at the Shannon Airport Lagoon © John N Murphy
Tuesday 3rd May 2011
A drake Green-winged Teal was at Lough Atedaun (Dave McNamara).
Monday 2nd May 2011
There were four Yellowhammers in the Mullaghmore area.
Six Blackcaps were at Commons North, Kilnaboy and at least five Cuckoos were calling in the same area.
Sunday 1st May 2011
A flock of 52 Whimbrel flew in a North-west direction over Applewood, Ballycar.
Once again this year there have been lots of Cuckoos throughout the whole county © John N Murphy.
Leave a comment April 2011
New Home for troublesome Great Tits
The new nest box has been put in place next to the Post Box at Ballycalla for the Great Tit to nest in next season © John N Murphy.
Saturday 30th April 2011
There was one male and two female Crossbills at Letteragh Wood, Lisseycasey along side one male Hen Harrier.
Friday 29th April 2011
There was a pair of Tree Sparrows at Liscannor Graveyard and 50 Whimbrel along the shore.
Another 30 Whimbrel were at Clahane Beach along with six White Wagtails.
A Kingfisher was on the River Fergus close to Ennis town centre this morning.
One Whooper Swan was staying late and on his own at Kilfenora.
White Wagtail at Clahane © Jeff Copner
Tree Sparrow at Liscannor © Jeff Copner
Thursday 28th April 2011
One Marsh Harrier flew over the motorway this evening near the Quin Road flyover at Ennis (John N Murphy).
A Jay was at the back of Cusack Park along the River Fergus., while a Kingfisher was a little further upstream.
Wednesday 27th April 2011
There were 63 Whimbrel at the Flaggy Shore this afternoon.
A Yellowhammer was seen just north of Ruan.
Tuesday 26th April 2011
One Ruff and four Whimbrel were at Lough Graney.
Sunday 24th April 2011
One second year Glaucous Gull was at Finvarra Point.
Glaucous Gull second year bird at Finvarra Point © Dave McNamara
Friday 22nd April 2011
A male Velvet Scoter was at Lahinch (Dave McNamara).
There were three Grasshopper Warblers and a Whitethroat at Roxton, Corofin.
Wednesday 20th April 2011
Two Swifts were seen flying over Glor, in Ennis, these are the first this year for Clare.
Eight Blackcaps were singing in Lees Road Wood this afternoon.
A Kingfisher was on the River Fergus.
The controversial post box at Ballycalla, near the Honk that has been put out of service due to the fact that a pair of Great Tits have taken up squatters right here for the past three summers.
Tuesday 19th April 2011
A WHITE-TAILED EAGLE was seen over Mountshannon, Lough Derg (Angus Levie).
One Velvet Scoter and 19 Common Scoters were at Lahinch.
Two Bonxies were at the Bridges of Ross.
Three White Wagtails were at Kilbaha.
Monday 18th April 2011
There were eight Blackcaps singing in Dromore Nature Reserve this afternoon.
Sunday 17th April 2011
One Buzzard was seen flying Southwest over Mount Callan.
There were seven Grasshopper Warblers, four Sedge Warblers and two Cuckoos at Lickeen Lake.
Three Yellowhammers and five Blackcaps were in the Mullaghmore area in the Burren.
Three Kingfishers were at a river near Quin.
Three Blackcaps were singing at Applewood, Ballycar.
Two Cuckoos were at Miltown Malbay.
Two Blackcaps were singing at Dromoland Castle.
Three Blackcaps were at Inagh with another bird at Ennistymon.
Grasshopper Warblers were heard reeling at Milltown Malbay, near Ennistymon and a few more near Inagh.
Grasshopper Warbler © Dave McNamara
Saturday 16th April 2011
The drake and hen Surf Scoter were at Liscannor Bay today (Frank O’Duffy) along with
the female Velvet Scoter.
There were 14 Black-throated Divers and 77 Red-breasted Mergansers at Finvarra Point.
Two Blackcaps and a Whitethroat were at Fanore.
Two Blackcaps were at Applewood, Ballycar.
Another Blackcap was singing at Oak Park Ennis.
One Kingfisher was on the River Fergus in Ennis.
Kingfisher in Ennis Town © John N Murphy
Friday 15th April 2011
The male Surf Scoter was at Liscannor (John N Murphy)
The second-year Glaucous Gull was at Seafield, Quilty, along with one Whimbrel and 30 White Wagtails.
One first-year Glaucous Gull was at Clahane with three White Wagtails, nine Purple Sandpipers
and a large flock of mixed Gulls.
Ten White Wagtails were at Liscannor.
At Lough Gash, Newmarket-on-Fergus this morning there were three pairs of Gadwall,
32 Tufted Ducks, three pairs of Great Crested Grebe and two singing Blackcaps.
One drake Pochard, two Shelduck , five Greylag Geese and three Blackcaps were at Fin Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Glaucous Gull at Sealfield © John N Murphy
Thursday 14th April 2011
One second-year Glaucous Gull, 45 Brent Geese , six Great Northern Divers and 20 White Wagtails were at Seafield, Quilty.
Four Blackcaps and three Grasshopper Warblers were at Rath Lake, Corofin.
One Cuckoo was heard calling at Sixmilebridge.
A pair of Kingfishers were on the River Fergus at Ruan.
Two Blackcaps were singing in the Crag between Oak Park and Pine Grove Ennis.
White Wagtail migrating through Seafield © Dave McNamara
Wednesday 13th April 2011
Four Blackcaps were singing in Lees Road Wood and another at Ballyallia.
Four Blackcaps were singing in Lees Road Wood and another at Ballyallia.
At least eight male Blackcaps were singing between Ballycar and Fenloe Lake.
At Fenloe Lake there were 20 Cormorant nest, two Shelduck, four Lapwing, 12 Greylag Geese and eight Teal.
Over 150 Swallows were hawking for insects over Ballyallia Lake.
Over 150 Swallows were hawking for insects over Ballyallia Lake.
Tuesday 12th April 2011
There were two Sedge Warblers singing at the Shannon Airport lagoon this afternoon and 2,000
Black-tailed Godwits were roosting on the lagoon itself along with eight Little Egrets, 12 Teal and
four Water Rails calling from the reedbeds.
Monday 11th April 2011
A Cuckoo was heard in Kilmaley and Darragh today.
Seven Blackcaps were singing in Lees Road Wood this evening.
Another Blackcaps was singing at Ballyallia amidst a big hatch of insects.
Sunday 10th April 2011
The WATER PIPIT was seen at Clahane again.
A female Smew was at Lough Bunny (Dave McNamara).
A Velvet Scoter, Red -throated Diver, 30 Great Northern Diver and 30 Common Scoter were at Lahinch.
A Grasshopper Warbler was at Doolough.
A group of 17 Sandwich Terns were on Cregg Beach near Moy House, Lahinch.
Saturday 9th April 2011
The WATER PIPIT was still at Clahane (Dave McNamara).
The drake and hen Surf Scoter were still at Lahinch alongf with the female Surf Scoter (Dave McNamara).
A female Smew was at the south-east end of Finn, Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus (Paul Troake).
Thursday 7th April 2011
One adult summer WATER PIPIT was at Clahane (Jeff Copner), alongside 15 Brent Geese.
There were eight Sandwich Terns and 120 Brent Geese at Liscannor.
Three Blackcap were singing in Lees Road Wood.
Wednesday 6th April 2011
Four Greylag Geese and two Blackcaps were at Applewood, Ballycar.
Four Blackcaps were heard singing around Ennis.
Two pairs of Siskin were nesting at Moanreel.
Tuesday 5th April 2011
Five Black-throated Divers were off Aughinish.
Five Blackcaps were singing at Gort Coirce, Corofin.
There were four male Blackcaps singing at Applewood, Ballycar.
Three Goldeneye were still at Lough Bunny.
Monday 4th April 2011
Over 200 Sand Martins were at Ballyallia Lake and among them were two Swallows.
Three Blackcap were singing at Lees Road Wood and another at Ballyallia.
Two Kingfishers were one the River Fergus in the middle of Ennis.
Saturday 2nd April 2011
There is a drake and one female Surf Scoter at Lahinch (Howard Williams). This is probably the pair from Doonbeg.
Friday 1st April 2011
One Little Gull was at Liscannor along with 50 Brent Geese and a large mixed flock of gulls.
Leave a comment March 2011
L
Thursday 31st March 2011
There were four Common Terns at Poulnasherry Bay this morning.
One Swallow was at Applewood, Ballycar.
Wednesday 30th March 2011
There was one Yellowhammer singing at Tubber with another male at Mullaghmore, The Burren.
Willow Warblers were recorded to be widespread throughout the county today with numberous
birds calling in the Burren.
Tuesday 29th March 2011
Four Pink-footed Geese, 32 White-fronted Geese, six Greylag Geese and one female Hen Harrier
were at Lough Muckanagh.
One Willow Warbler and a male Blackcap were singing at Applewood, Ballycar this morning.
Monday 28th March 2011
Two Whimbrels were at Blackweir Bridge, Poulnasherry Bay this morning.
Two Kingfishers were on the River Fergus in the middle of Ennis Town.
One male Wheatear was on the New Line, the Burren.
A Blackcap was singing at Ballyallia Lake this evening.
Three Little Egrets were on the River Fergus at Clareabbey.
One male Blackcap was singing at Applewood, Ballycar.
Sunday 27th March 2011
The six Pink-footed Geese were at Lough Muckanagh along with 53 White-fronted Geese.
A Willow Warbler was singing at Darragh, this was the first recorded in the county this year.
Two Swallows were on Canon Island in the Fergus Estuary.
One Swallow was just outside Miltown Malbay.
One Crossbill and a male Blackcap were at Gort Coirce.
Two Kingfishers were on a river near Quin.
Four Yellowhammers were at Mullaghmore in the Burren.
One male Blackcap was at Applewood, Ballycar.
Yellowhammer at Mullaghmore © Dave McNamara
Saturday 26th March 2011
Two Kingfishers were on a River near Quin.
Four Little Egrets were at Clare Abbey.
One male Blackcap was singing at Applewood, Ballycar.
Kingfisher © John N Murphy
Friday 25th March 2011
One Crossbill was at Gort Coirce, Corofin.
The first Swallow was seen near Kilneagh with two Sandmartins.
Two Kingfishers were at a river near Quin.
Crossbill at Gort Coirce © Dave McNamara
Thursday 24th March 2011
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at Clarecastle Quay (Finbarr MacGabhann).
There were 20 Sandmartins on the River Fergus in the middle of Ennis.
Wednesday 23rd March 2011
Chiffchaffs were heard singing today at Ennis, Clarecastle, Shannon, The Honk, Applewood, Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus and many more locations throughout the county.
Chiffchaff singing at Applewood, Ballycar © John N Murphy
Tuesday 22nd March 2011
The first year male Surf Scoter was off Finvarra Point (Paul Traoke).
Also off North Clare there were 25 Black-throated Divers, 120 Great Northern Divers and 19 Long-tailed Ducks.
Two Whimbrel and four Great Northern Divers were at Seafield, Quilty.
Puffins have returned to the Cliffs of Moher this morning.
One Merlin was seen flying over the Cooraclare River at Shragh.
A flock of 27 Whooper Swans flew over Querrin this evening.
One Little Egret and two Ravens were at Moyasta.
Monday 21st March 2011
There were three Ring-billed Gulls (two adult summers and one adult winter) at Clarecastle Quay this afternoon, along with one singing Chiffchaff, two Sandmartins and one Raven.
One first-winter Iceland Gull was at Clahane.
One Little Egret was on the stream near Ballygriffey Castle.
One Chiffchaff was singing at Lough Gash.
One Dipper was at Kilfenora.
A Raven was at Lees Road Wood.
Ring-billed Gulls at Clarecastle Quay © John N Murphy
Iceland Gull at Clahane © Dave McNamara
Friday 18th March 2011
A flock of 20 Golden Plover was seen flying north over the Slieve Barnagh Mountains.
Two Ravens were seen at Shragh Bog.
Thursday 17th March 2011
There were 29 Black-throated Divers off Black Head.
Two Wheatears and 11 Chough were on the cliff drive west of Kilkee.
Twenty Sand Martins were at Athlunkard/Shannon Banks.
A flock of 70 Whooper Swans were at Ballygireen, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Wednesday 16th March 2011
The 2nd year Surf Scoter was at Gleninagh castle, North Clare again today (Jeff Copner).
There were four Wheatears at Chimney Bay, Kilkee.
Tuesday 15th March 2011
The WATER PIPIT was still at Clahane today (John N Murphy), along with 26 Brent Geese.
A count of 50 Black-throated Divers, 50 Great Northern Divers, 30 Red-breasted Mergansers, 40 Common Scoter and 30 Brent Geese were had between Black Head and Ballyvaughan.
A flock of 56 Whooper Swans were at Ballygireen.
One Chiffchaff was singing at Carrigoran, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
A Merlin was at Furglans between Inagh and Ennistymon.
A male Blackcap was seen at a peanut feeder at New Road Ennis this morning.
Monday 14th March 2011
The two Goosanders were still at Roo Lough (John N Murphy & Brian Finnegan).
At nearby Lough Muchanagh there were 36 White-fronted Geese and a small group of
six Pink-footed Geese.
One female Hen Harrier was at Ballyporty, Corofin.
A flock of 14 Goldeneye were at Lough Bunny.
Ten Sand Martins were at Ballyallia Lake with one Little Egret and three Whooper Swans at Drumcliff.
There were two Peregrines at Lough Atedaun.
A flock of 50 Rock Doves were at New Quay.
Sunday 13th March 2011
Two Goosanders were at Roo Lough (Jeff Copner).
The first Spring migrants of the year were a small flock of 12 Sand Martin seen over Ballyallia Lake this evening.
A small flock of six Yellowhammers were at Mullaghmore in the Burren.
Saturday 12th March 2011
The female redhead Smew was still at Lough Bunny (Jeff Copner).
The two female/immature Goosanders were at Roo Lough (Dave McNamara).
Friday 11th March 2011
A female redhead Smew was at Lough Bunny (Dave McNamara).
Two immature/female Goosanders were at Roo Lough, north of Tubber (Dave McNamara).
There were 30 Black-throated Divers off Finvarra Point.
A flock of 43 Pochard were at Lough Murree.
Over 100 Barnacle Geese were on Illaunonearaun.
One Little Egret was at Clareabbey, Ennis.
One Little Egret was at Moyasta.
Thursday 10th March 2011
The GOLDEN EAGLE was see again at Kilbane, Broadford (David Lyons).
A flock of 90 Barnacle Geese were at Illaunonearaun.
Two Little Egrets were at Blackwier Bridge, Poulnasherry.
Wednesday 9th March 2011
The WATER PIPIT was at Clahane (Jeff Copner), along with the colour ringed Redshank.
The Tufted x Ring-necked Duck hybrid was still at Lough Inchiquin.
Two Dippers were seen once more at Moananagh Cross between Inagh and Ennistymon.
A flock of 90 Pochard were on a small Turlough, just North of Tubber on the Clare/Galway border.
Tuesday 8th March 2011
Two Dippers were between Inagh and the Falls, Ennistymon.
Two Woodcock were at Roxton, Corofin.
One Peregrine was at Cregg Beach, Lahinch.
Monday 7th March 2011
There were two Water Rails and two Greylag Geese at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Sunday 6th March 2011
The WATER PIPIT and two Chough were at Clahane (Dave McNamara).
One Dipper was at Ballynacarghan Bridge, Kilfenora.
One Water Rail was at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Saturday 5th March 2011
One immature Iceland Gull was at Kilbaha.
Friday 4th March 2011
There was one male and one female Surf Scoter at Doughmore Bay today (Jeff Copner), along with 16 Great Northern Divers,
two Red-throated Divers and four Black Guillemots.
One ring-tailed Hen Harrier was between Cross and Kilbaha.
A flock of 60 Golden Plover were at the Skivileen River.
Thursday 3rd March 2011
The WATER PIPIT was still at Clahane (John N Murphy).
Between Black Head and Ballyvaughan there was one 2nd year Surf Scoter (John N Murphy), along with 57 Black-throated Divers, 116 Great Northern Divers, three Red-throated Divers, 12 Gannets, 340 Razorbills, 106 Common Scoter, 47 Red-breasted Mergansers, 28 Brent Geese and one Little Egret.
A small flock of 14 Barnacle Geese were on Mutton Island.
A group of 27 Brent Geese were at Quilty Beach.
Leave a comment February 2011
Monday 28th February 2011
The Forster’s Tern was off Doorus (Dave McNamara).
Off Finvarra Point there was one Eider Duck, two Long-tailed Ducks and an adult Mediterranean Gull.
There were 21 Black-throated Divers off the Flaggy Shore.
One Yellowhammer was on the New Line.
A flock of 36 White-fronted Geese were at Lough Muchanagh.
Saturday 26th February 2011
The WATER PIPIT was at Clahane (John N Murphy & Brian Finnegan).
The male and female Surf Scoter were still at Doughmore Bay (John N Murphy & Brian Finnegan).
A Jay was at Lees Road Wood this morning.
Friday 25th February 2011
One Barn Owl was at Rath, Corofin.
Two Dippers were making a nest at the Rine River near Quin.
Thirty two Whooper Swans were at Drumcliffe.
A Dipper with nesting material on the Rine River © John N Murphy
Thursday 24th February 2011
The WATER PIPIT was still at Clahane (Brian Finnegan).
The drake and hen Surf Scoter were at Doughmore (Dave McNamara).
One Long-eared Owl was at Glendree, east Clare.
There was a flock of 20 Scaup on the Fergus Estuary.
One ring-tail Hen Harrier was at Doonbeg Village.
One ring-tail Hen Harrier was at Lough Atedaun.
There were ten Gadwall at an Riasc, Ruan
Wednesday 23rd February 2011
One female Surf Scoter was at Gleninagh Castle North Clare today (John N Murphy & Andy Smith).
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour along with one adult Ring-billed Gull (Andy Smith & John N Murphy).
Between Black Head and Doorus on the North Clare coast there were 18 Black-throated Divers, six Red-throated Divers, 100 Great Northern Divers, six Long-tailed Ducks, 80 Common Scoter, one Sandwich Tern, nine Whooper Swans, one Little Egret, one Merlin, 80 Bar-tailed Godwits, 50 Turnstone, 30 Red-breasted Mergansers and 60 Brent Geese.
There were 30 Goldeneye, six Scaup, one Brambling and a Dipper near Ardclooney.
Tuesday 22nd February 2011
One female Surf Scoter was off Ballyvaughan Bay (Norwegian birders).
Monday 21st February 2011
One male and female Surf Scoter were at Doughmore Bay, Doonbeg (Paul Troake),
along with a female Velvet Scoter.
One Little Egret and three Water Rails were at the Shannon Airport Lagoon.
A flock of 24 Whooper Swans were at Drumcliff, Ballyallia Lake, Ennis.
Sunday 20th February 2011
Two immature/female Goosanders were on the Shannon River near Shannon Banks on the Clare/Limerick border (Paul Troake).
Two Black-throated Divers and 60 Common Scoter were near Gleninagh Castle.
A flock of 37 White-fronted Geese were at Lough Muchanagh.
Saturday 19th February 2011
The Water Pipit was still at Clahane (Dave McNamara).
One 2nd cal Surf Scoter was near Black Head (Wilton Farrelly).
One Green Sandpiper was at Ballycorick Bridge with one Little Egrert at Ballycorick Creek., along with one Merlin and one Peregrine.
At Liscannor Bay today there were 46 Brent Geese, ten Common Scoter, four Red-throated Divers, 125 Dunlin, 14 Knot and the colour ringed Redshank.
One Brambling was at Mount Vernon, North Clare.
Five Sandwich Terns were at the Flaggy Shore.
One ring-tailed Hen Harrier was at Doonagore Bog.
Three Yellowhammer were at Mullaghmore.
Four Whooper Swan were on Lake Inchiquin.
Eleven Goldeneye were seen at Lough Muckanagh.
Friday 18th February 2011
There were nine Whooper Swans at Ballycar Lough today, at nearby Applewood there was a flock of 160 Fieldfares.
Thursday 17th February 2011
A GOLDEN EAGLE was spotted at Kilbane, Broadford (David Lyons). This bird was colour tagged and originated from Donegal.
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at Creg Beach, Liscannor.
A female Hen Harrier was at Lough Muchanagh.
A male Blackcap was New Road Ennis and a female at Oak Park.
Wednesday 16th February 2011
An Eastern Jackdaw was at Doonbeg Golf Course.
One Little Egret was at Ballymacahill, Ennis.
One Woodcock was at Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus this evening.
Tuesday 15th February 2011
A Common Sandpiper was at Liscannor harbour.
Monday 14th February 2011
The immature/2nd cal year male Surf Scoter was between Finvarra Point and Black Head again today (Niall T Keogh, Stephen King, John N Murphy & James Hayes).
Also between Finvarra and Black Head were 26 Black-throated Divers, one Red-throated Diver, 70 Great Northern Divers, 90 Common Scoter, five Long-tailed Ducks, two Sandwich Terns, 140 Razorbills, 50 Black Guillemots, three Gannets, one Little Egret and a Peregrine.
One first-winter Glaucous Gull was at Quilty.
One Merlin was at Lough Atedaun.
There were two female Hen Harriers and 44 White-fronted Geese at Lough Muchanagh.
Sunday 13th February 2011
The PACIFIC DIVER was still off Finvarra Point this morning (Dave McNamara).
One male Surf Scoter was also off Finvarra Point (Michael Davis).
The six immature/female Goosanders were still at Roo Lough.
One albino Great Northern Diver was at Black Head.
Two Kingfishers were on the River Fergus near Willow Park, Ennis.
Saturday 12th February 2011
The PACIFIC DIVER was off Finvarra Point this morning (John Power & Denis O Sullivan).
Six immature Goosanders were at Roo Lough north of Tubber.
Also off Finvarra point were 12 Black-throated Divers, ten Long-tailed Ducks and one first-winter Common Eider.
Between Doorus and Black Head there were 90 Great Northern Divers, 100 Razorbills, five Sandwich Terns, 40 Black Guillemots, 40 Red-breasted Mergansers and 80 Brent Geese.
One dark-bellied Brent Goose was at Fanore along with 45 Pale-bellied Brent Geese.
Black-throated Diver North Clare © John N Murphy
Cormorant in North Clare showing characteristics of the sinensis race © John N Murphy
Distant shot of Dark-bellied Brent Goose with pale-bellied birds at Fanore © John N Murphy
Friday 11th February 2011
The PACIFIC DIVER and seven Black-throated Divers were at Finvarra Point (Neal Warnock).
The first-winter drake Ring-necked Duck was at Lough Gash (John N Murphy) along with 84 Tufted Ducks and 19 Gadwall.
Six immature/female Goosanders were at Roo Lough north of Tubber.
At Ballyallia Lake today the three White-fronted Geese were still present along with 28 Whooper Swans, 450 Wigeon, 100 Tufted Ducks, 200 Teal, two Pintail, six Shoveler, 35 Little Grebes and 20 Curlew.
One Little Egret was at the Shannon Airport Lagoon.
Two Dippers were at Gillogue.
Two Dippers were at Gillogue.
Thursday 10th February 2011
A male Blackcap was in a garden at New Road Ennis.
A Jay was at Lees Road Wood.
Wednesday 9th February 2011
One Water Pipit was at Clahane (Dave McNamara), along with one Peregrine and the colour ringed Redshank.
Ten Woodcock were at Rath, Corofin.
A flock of 90 Barnacle Geese were at Illaunonearaun.
One Peregrine was at the Cliff Walk Kilkee, while a small flock of 25 Whooper Swans were near Kilkee Reservoir.
One Peregrine and ten Goldeneye were at Lough Muchanagh.
There were 11 Greylag Geese and one Water Rail at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Tuesday 8th February 2011
There were four Crossbills and three Ravens at Kilnacreagh, Sixmilebridge.
One female Hen Harrier was near Lough Muchanagh.
Four Yellowhammers were between Lough Muchanagh and Lough Bunny.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park Ennis and a male was at New Road
Monday 7th February 2011
One Little Egret was near Drumcliff, Ballyallia.
Two Jays were at Dromore Nature Reserve.
Sunday 6th February 2011
One Water Pipit was still near Seafield (John N Murphy).
One Water Pipit was at Clahane (James Hayes, John N Murphy & Clodagh Glasgow).
One Eastern Jackdaw was near Seafield (John N Murphy).
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at Quilty Beach.
One Black-throated Diver, 86 Great Northern Divers, 30 Long-tailed Ducks, 200 Brent Geese and two Sandwich Terns were at Aughinish Island.
There were lots of waders at Seafield that included 600 Dunlin, 400 Sanderling, 80 Purple Sandpipers, 280 Turnstones, 40 Knot and one Merlin.
Nine Red-throated Divers were at Liscannor Bay along with 25 Common Scoter, over 200 Golden Plover were near the Pitch & Put course at Liscannor.
A small flock of 50 Barnacle Geese were at Moveen.
Thirteen Whooper Swans were at Kilkee Reservoir.
One Little Egret was on the River Fergus near Clareabbey.
There were 14 Goldeneye at Lough Bunny with another ten Goldeneye at Lough Muchanagh.
One Jay was at Kileen, Corofin.
Jay at Corofin © Jim Nolan
Saturday 5th February 2011
One Water pipit was at Clahane and the second Water Pipit was still near Seafield (Dave McNamara).
There was also on Merlin and three Chough at Clahane.
A flock of 100 Golden Plover were near O’Brien’s Bridge, Lahinch.
Friday 4th January 2011
A flock of 28 Greylag Geese came to roost at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus late this evening.
Thursday 3rd February 2011
The Water Pipit was still at Clahane today (John N Murphy), along with two Chough and 11 Brent Geese.
One adult Ring-billed Gull and a Merlin were at Cregg Beach, Lahinch.
Wednesday 2nd February 2011
A Water pipit was found on the shore between Lough Donnell and Seafield (Dave McNamara).
The first-winter drake Ring-necked Duck was still at Lough Gash (John N Murphy).
The first-winter Iceland and Glaucous Gulls were at Clahane along with nine Brent Geese.
One adult Iceland Gull was at Lough Donnell, along with 183 Curlew, 14 Grey Plover, one Merlin and one Peregrine.
Two immature/female Goosanders were still on the Shannon River near Shannon Banks on the Clare/Limerick border (see photos in the Limerick section).
Water Pipit near Seafield © Dave McNamara
Iceland Gull at Clahane © Jeff Copner
Glaucous Gull at Clahane © Jeff Copner
Tuesday 1st February 2011
The Water pipit was still at Clahane again today (John N Murphy & Howard Williams).
One first-winter Iceland Gull and on first winter Glaucous Gull were at Liscannor. They were later seen at high tide roost at Clahane.
There were 15 Brambling in a private garden at Lemenagh Mor, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One Merlin and three Chough were also at Clahane.
Iceland Gull with adult Herring Gull at Liscannor © John N Murphy
Glaucous Gull on beach at Liscannor © John N Murphy
Iceland (foreground) & Glaucous Gull together at Clahane late in the evening © Dave McNamara
Leave a comment January 2011
List of Contributors:
Dermot Breen, Austin Cooney, Jeff Copner, Ciaran Cronin, Chris Cullen, Clodagh Glasgow, Tim Griffin, Kathy & Dave Gorman, Brian Finnegan, James Hayes, Barry Howell, Nuala Lynch, Tom Lynch, Finbarr MacGabhann, Dave McNamara, John N Murphy, Frank O ‘Duffy, Bill Ryan, Pearse Ryan, Ercus Stewart , Tom Tarpey, Paul Troake and Howard Wiliams.
Monday 31st January 2011
The Water Pipit was still at Clahane (Dave McNamara & John N Murphy).
Also at Clahane were two Chough, 90 Curlew and the colour ringed Redshank.
One Little Egret was at Lahinch Marsh.
Two Dippers were on the river at Ennistymon.
Water Pipit at Clahane © John N Murphy
Sunday 30th January 2011
The Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour this morning (James Hayes & Clodagh Glasgow).
There were two Black-throated Divers, eight Long-tailed Ducks, one Red-throated Diver and a Peregrine at the Flaggy Shore.
A flock of 49 Whooper Swans were at Kilkee reservoir.
Saturday 29th January 2011
The Water Pipit was at Clahane (Dave McNamara).
The first-year drake Ring-necked Duck was at Lough Gash (John Power & Denis O Sullivan).
One first year male Eider was off the Flaggy Shore near Lough Murree along wth six Long-tailed Ducks.
At Lough Murree there were 150 Brent Geese, two of whom were colour banded while the Black Swan was on the lake.
Two female Goosanders, initially seen on the Limerick side of the Shannon at Corbally, were last seen at St Thomas’s Island, Parteen.
Two female Goosanders, initially seen on the Limerick side of the Shannon at Corbally, were last seen at St Thomas’s Island, Parteen.
Water Pipit at Clahane © Dave McNamara
Redshank at Clahane with colour rings a returning bird © Dave McNamara
Friday 28th January 2011
The Water Pipit was back at Clahane (Dave McNamara).
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour (Howard Williams).
Four Black-throated Divers, 19 Long-tailed Duck and a Merlin were at Finvarra Point.
There were 145 Barnacle Geese at Killard, Doonbeg.
Three Tree Sparrows were near Doonbeg Golf Club.
One adult Mediterranean Gull and a Peregrine were at Doughmore Bay.
At Ballyallia Lake the three White-fronted Geese were with the Greylags and one Water Rail was showing well near the slipway.
One Little Egret was a the Killow West attenuation Pond.
A flock of 110 Whooper Swans were at Ballygireen.
A male Blackcap was on the banks of the Fergus at New Road Ennis.
Green-winged Teal at Bell Harbour © Howard Williams
Water Rail on the slipway at Ballyallia Lake © John N Murphy
Thursday 27th January 2011
The Green-winged Teal was at Bell Habour again today (John N Murphy & James Hayes).
Between Finvarra Point and Aughinish Island there were 12 Black-throated Divers, two Velvet Scoter, 21 Long-tailed Ducks, 62 Great Northern Divers, one Sandwich Tern, 100 Red-breasted Mergansers, 40 Black Guillemots, 300 Wigeon, two Little Egrets, 400 Brent Geese, 420 Teal, 85 Shellduck, 42 Common Scoter, 126 Rock Dove (of which 116 were in one field together near Lavella Farm) and one Black Swan at Lough Murree.
Four Water Rails were near Tubber.
Wednesday 26th January 2011
A WHITE-TAILED EAGLE flew across the main road just north of Crusheen this morning (John N Murphy).
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour (Howard Williams & Chris Cullen).
Off Finvarra Point there were 11 Black-throated Divers, two Red-throated Divers, six Long-tailed Duck, 42 Brent Geese, 48 Common Scoter and one Peregrine.
Tuesday 25th January 2011
The PACIFIC DIVER was back off Finvarra Point today (Ciaran Cronin) along with 18 Black-throated Divers.
There were 16 Brent Geese and three Chough at Clahane.
Monday 24th January 2011
One Green Sandpiper was at Ballycorrick, Bridge, Ballynacally.
There were 2,500 Dunlin, 300 Redshank and 85 Shellduck on the mudflats at Islandavanna.
Five Chough and eight Brent Geese at Clahane.
One male Blackcap was in Willow Park, Ennis.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park Ennis.
Green Sandpiper at Ballycorrick © John N Murphy
Sunday 23rd January 2011
One Water Pipit was at Clahane this lunchtime (Dave McNamara).
One Kingfisher was seen on the Fergus River at Willow Park, Ennis.
Water Pipit at Clahane © Dave McNamara
Saturday 22nd January 2011
A PACIFIC DIVER was off the Martelloe Tower at Finvarra Point today (Tim Griffin).
Also off the North Clare coast were 24 Black-throated Divers and one Whimbrel.
There was one Water Rail, 100 Tufted Duck, 24 Greylag Geese and 38 Black-tailed Godwits at Ballyallia Lake. One of the Black-tailed Godwits was colour ringed.
Friday 21st January 2011
There were 32 White-fronted Geese at Tullagher Bog.
One Peregrine and eight Purple Sandpipers were at Kilkee Beach.
Purple Sandpiper at Kilkee © John N Murphy
Thursday 20th January 2011
One Short-eared Owl was at Deelin Moor, the Burren.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park Ennis and a male on the banks of the Fergus at New Road, Ennis.
One male Hen Harrier was near Miltown Malbay.
One female Hen Harrier was at Querrin.
Wednesday 19th January 2011
There were 100 Golden Plover and six Great Northern Divers at Doonbeg.
Redpoll at Doughmore © Jeff Copner
Tuesday 18th January 2011
The first-winter drake Ring-necked Duck was at Lough Gash (John N Murphy & James Hayes.)
One Waxwing flew over Kilbaha, while two tree Sparrows were in the gardens and a Peregrine was seen hunting the headland.
One Lapland Bunting was heard calling near Ross Bay.
Three White-fronted Geese, over 200 Tufted Ducks and a Water Rail were at Ballyallia Lake.
One Little Egret and a Water Rail were at Shannon Airport Lagoon.
One Common Sandpiper and four Turnstone were at the Quay in Clarecastle.
Monday 17th January 2011
There were seven Waxwings on the Gort Road, Ennis this morning.
One Lapland Bunting was at Loop Head, along with a 2nd/3rd winter Glaucous Gull and one Merlin.
Some seabirds were observed on the cliffs, 1900 Guillemots and 140 Fulmars.
One Brambling was seen near Ballycar, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Six Chough were at Clahane and 15 Red-throated Divers were on Liscannor Bay.
Waxwings gorging themselves on the last few remaining berries, Gort Road, Ennis © John N Murphy
Waxwing in Ennis © Dave McNamara
Sunday 16th January 2011
One Black-thoated Diver near Doorus on the north coast.
One Brambling was within a flock of 200 Chaffinches at the Shannon Industrial Estate.
One Merlin, one Little Egret, three Sandwich Terns, 20 Great Northern Divers and 80 Ringed Plovers were at Aughinish Island.
A flock of 38 Greylag Geese were at Fenloe Lake.
Saturday 15th January 2011
The first-winter Ring-necked Duck was still at Lough Gash this morning (John N Murphy & Finbarr MacGabhann).
The drake Green-winged Teal was still at Bell Harbour (Clodagh Glasgow & James Hayes).
One Short-eared Owl and a female ring tailed Hen Harrier were at Lough Muchanagh.
Eight Barnacle Geese were near the White Strand, Doonbeg.
A small flock of 30 Purple Sandpipers were at Seafield, Quilty along with 120 Turnstones, 40 Sanderling and 50 Dunlin.
Friday 14th January 2010
The first-winter drake Ring-necked Duck was at Lough Gash (John N Murphy), along with 160 Tufted Ducks and 28 Gadwall.
This Ring-necked Duck at Lough Gash looks to be the same individual from Ballyallia in late 2010.
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour (James Hayes & Clodagh Glasgow).
Three White-fronted Geese were at Ballyallia Lake, Ennis.
There were three Greater Scaup and the Black Swan at Lough Murree.
One Water Rail was at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus, while a flock of 20 Whooper Swans were at Ballygireen.
Drake Tufted Duck (left) and first winter Ring-necked Duck (right) at Lough Gash © John N Murphy
First-winter drake Ring-necked Duck at Lough Gash © John N Murphy
Thursday 13th January 2011
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour (Tim Griffin).
A first-winter male Ring-necked Duck was at Lough Gash, Newmarket-on-Fergus (Paul Troake), this is probably the bird from Ballyallia Lake.
Also at Lough Gash were 24 Gdawall, four Woodcock and a female Blackcap was in a nearby garden.
There were four Crossbills near Coolmeen, Sixmilebridge.
A flock of 17 Greylag Geese were at Fenloe Lake.
Wednesday 12th January 2011
There were a flock of 22 Whooper Swans at Ballycar Lake, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Tuesday 11th January 2011
There were two Jack Snipe at Tullyvarraga Marsh, Shannon.
Five Little Egrets and one Water Rail were at the Shannon Airport Lagoon.
One Little Egret was at the attenuation pond near the Killow West Roundabout, Doora.
Monday 10th January 2011
The WHITE-TAILED EAGLE is still at Lough Atedaun (Dave McNamara).
One Velvet Scoter was at Lahinch along with 48 Common Scoter.
One female Goosander was at Ardclooney along with five drake Greater Scaup.
One Buzzard was at Inisculllen Hill, Shannon.
Two adult and two immature Bramblings were at St. Flannan’s College Ennis.
Two Chough were at Clahane.
A Jay was at Lees Road Wood.
Sunday 9th January 2011
One male Blackcap was at Willow Park, Ennis.
Saturday 8th January 2011
One female Smew was showing well at Lake Inchiquin this morning (Dave McNamra et al).
The drake Green-winged Teal was at Bell Harbour (Finbarr MacGabhann).
A Goosander and a Peregrine were seen at Dromore Nature Reserve.
A Black-throated Diver, Red-throated Diver and a Merlin were at the Rine.
Two Black-throated Diver and a Red-throated Diver were reported from Bishops Quarter.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park Ennis.
Friday 7th January 2011
The WHITE-TAILED EAGLE (Star) was at Dromore Nature Reserve along with three Goosander.
One female Velvet Scoter, a pair of Long-tailed Duck, four Great Northern Diver, eleven Red-throated Diver, two Black-throated Diver and forty Common Scoter were at Lahinch.
White-tailed Eagle at Dromore © Dave McNamara
White-tailed eagle Dromore © Jeff Copner
Thursday 6th January 2011
The WHITE-TAILED EAGLE (Star) was at Dromore Nature Reserve (Finbarr MacGabhann), along with
a Kingfisher, three Jays and a Water Rail.
The immature Velvet Scoter, Slavonian Grebe, 30 Common Scoters, 14 Knot and five Red-throated Divers were at Liscannor Bay.
One female Hen Harrier, two Little Egrets, three Water Rails and ten Gadwall were at the Shannon Airport Lagoon.
One Green Sandpiper was at Ballycorick Bridge, Ballynacally.
One female Hen Harrier was near Fort Fergus along with 37 Whooper Swans.
Another 20 Gadwall were at Lough Gash, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One male Blackcap was at a garden in Moanreel, Ennistymon.
A flock og 20 Whooper Swans were also along the riverside near Moanreel.
One Chough was at Clahane.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park Ennis.
Male Blackcap at Jeffs garden in Moanreel © Jeff Copner
Wednesday 5th January 2011
Two Waxwing were seen this afternoon close to Hogan’s Shop on the Gort Road, Ennis.
Two Brambling were at St. Flannan’s College, Ennis.
One female Hen Harrier and 25 White-fronted Geese were at Lough Muchanagh.
There were two Chough and a Merlin at Clahane.
One Peregrine and 30 Whooper Swans were at Mullaghmore.
A flock of 40 Whooper Swans were at Kells Lake, the Burren.
One Little Egret was at the Killow West attenuation pond near Doora.
A female Blackcap was at Oak Park, Ennis.
One male Blackcap was in a garden at Moanreel.
Brambling at St.Flannan’s College © John N Murphy
Chough at Clahane © Dave McNamara
Tuesday 4th January 2011
One male Hen Harrier was in Shragh Bog earlier this morning.
There were three White-fronted Geese at Ballyallia Lake, along with 14 Greylag Geese at Drumcliff, 132 Coot, 160 Tufted ducks and 43 Gadwall.
A female Blackcap was in a garden in Oak Park, Ennis.
The Black Swan was still at Lough Murree.
One male Blackcap was ina garden at Moanreel.
Monday 3rd January 2011
The WHITE-TAILED EAGLE (Star) was at Dromore Nature Reserve, Ruan today. This bird came back into Clare from Limerick on 28th December 2010, made its way across the Shannon Estuary, roosted near Kilrush before heading north-east to Dromore woods where it has stayed since. To follow the movements of Star log onto www.goldeneagle.ie for more details.
One female Marsh Harrier was at Lough Cullaun, the Burren.
Sunday 2nd January 2011
There were ten Black-throated Divers off Finvarra Point and one first-winter male Eider was at Carrickadda.
One Black Swan was still at Lough Murree.
Saturday 1st January 2011
There were two Water Rails at Ballycar Lough, Newmarket-on-Fergus.
One Water Rail was at Ballyallia Lake, Ennis.
Water Rail © Barry Howell
Leave a comment January-may 2011 Limerick good
Contributors
Ciaran Cronin, Davey Farrar, Mike Flanagan, Clodagh Glasgow, Ger Griffin, Jane Griffin, James Hayes, Andrew Holmes, Geoff Hunt, Mark Hunt, Harry Hussey, Gearoid Jackson, Seamus Keating, Roy Lathwell, Finbarr MacGabhann, Tony Mee, John N Murphy, Dennis O’Sullivan, John Power, Pearse Ryan, Mike Sheehy, Tom Tarpey, Paul Troake & Maura Turner.Thursday 19th May
Cuckoos were reported from Castlemahon, Patrickswell and Ballynort near Askeaton.
Ciaran Cronin, Davey Farrar, Mike Flanagan, Clodagh Glasgow, Ger Griffin, Jane Griffin, James Hayes, Andrew Holmes, Geoff Hunt, Mark Hunt, Harry Hussey, Gearoid Jackson, Seamus Keating, Roy Lathwell, Finbarr MacGabhann, Tony Mee, John N Murphy, Dennis O’Sullivan, John Power, Pearse Ryan, Mike Sheehy, Tom Tarpey, Paul Troake & Maura Turner.Thursday 19th May
Cuckoos were reported from Castlemahon, Patrickswell and Ballynort near Askeaton.
Tuesday 17th May 2011
One male Merlin and three Red Grouse were in the west Limerick Hills.
Sunday 15th May 2011
Three Blackcaps, four Sedge Warblers, two Chiffchaffs, several Willow Warblers and five Whimbrel were the main birds of note at the Dawn Chorus outing by the Shannon at UL. See feature on the outing at the end of the Sunday evening news programme on the TG4 website.Saturday 14th May 2011
A Wheatear, two Whitethroats, a Ringed Plover, two pairs of Lapwing, a pair of Great-crested Grebes, a pair of Teal and two Little Egrets were the main birds of note at Coonagh this morning.
Three Blackcaps, four Sedge Warblers, two Chiffchaffs, several Willow Warblers and five Whimbrel were the main birds of note at the Dawn Chorus outing by the Shannon at UL. See feature on the outing at the end of the Sunday evening news programme on the TG4 website.Saturday 14th May 2011
A Wheatear, two Whitethroats, a Ringed Plover, two pairs of Lapwing, a pair of Great-crested Grebes, a pair of Teal and two Little Egrets were the main birds of note at Coonagh this morning.
Wednesday 11th May 2011
A Cuckoo was calling at Cloncrew, Dromcollogher.
A male Hen Harrier was seen in the west Limerick Hills.
Sunday 8th May 2011
A male Ruff in full summer plumage was at the Coonagh Settlements ponds. Other birds at the site included 55 Black-tailed Godwits, a Lapwing, a Ringed Plover, six Shelduck, three Little Egrets and a pair of Greylag Geese with five recently hatched goslings.
Monday 2nd May 2011
A Corncrake was heard calling from the fields just north of the Coonagh Settlement Ponds this evening. Ten Whimbrel were also seen in the same area.
Sunday 1st May 2011
A pair of Swifts was seen in Limerick City. These are the first reported this year for the city.
Four Cuckoos, three Whimbrel and two Hen Harrier pairs were seen in the West Limerick Hills.
Hen Harriers in west Limerick © Mike Sheehy
Saturday 30th April 2011
A Cuckoo was at Carrigkerry.
Cuckoo at Carrigkerry © Mike Sheehy
Thursday 28th April 2011
A single Swift was seen at Oola.
A Cuckoo was heard at Mainister, Croom.
A continental race ‘sinensis’ Cormorant was noted at the breeding colony at Bunlickey (John N Murphy).
Cormorant at Bunlickey showing characteristics of the European ‘sinensis’ race © John N MurphyWednesday 27th April 2011
White-tailed Eagle ‘Lochlann’ was at Dooncaha, Shannagolden on its way northwards from Kerry towards Clare.
Three Blackcaps were in song at Gooig Bog east side.
Monday 25th April 2011
A flock of 15 Crossbills were seen near Carrigkerry.
White-tailed Eagle ‘Lochlann’ was at Dooncaha, Shannagolden on its way northwards from Kerry towards Clare.
Three Blackcaps were in song at Gooig Bog east side.
Monday 25th April 2011
A flock of 15 Crossbills were seen near Carrigkerry.
Female Crossbill at Carrigkerry © Mike FlanaganSunday 24th April 2011
A Hen Harrier and three Crossbills were seen near Carrigkerry.
A Hen Harrier and three Crossbills were seen near Carrigkerry.
Saturday 23rd April 2011
Three Cuckoos and five Crossbills were reported from the Carrigkerry area.
A Dipper was seen on the Deel at Castlemahon.
Dipper at Castlemahon © Mark Hunt
Sunday 17th April 2011
Eleven Whimbrel flew westwards over the Coonagh Settlement Ponds this morning. Other birds of note at the site were a Wheatear, a Sedge Warbler, two pairs of Ringed Plover, four Lapwing and a Pochard.
Eight singing Blackcaps were in a CBS tetrad (2km x 2km) at Currachase. A Cuckoo was also heard in the area.
Friday 15th April 2011
A pair of Blackcaps was seen on the Southern Trail at Dromin McTurlough, near Newcastle West.
Monday 11th April 2011
A Cuckoo was heard calling at the eastern side of Plassey Park this evening. Two Blackcaps were also in song in the area.
Saturday 9th April 2011
A Merlin was seen south of Banogue.
Friday 8th April 2011
Four Crossbills and two Wheatear were see near Tournafulla.
Thursday 7th April 2011
A Wheatear and two Little Egrets were at Coonagh.
A Blackcap and five Willow Warblers were in song at Gooig Bog. A single Swallow was alos seen there.
Tuesday 5th April 2011
A Swallow was seen at Adare.
Sunday 3rd April 2011
A Blackcap and a Willow Warbler were in song at Gooig Bog. Seven Sand Martins were also seen there.
Four House Martins were at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds along with 50 Sand Martins and two Little Egrets. Other birds at Coonagh included 36 Teal, 18 Wigeon, six Pochard, four Shoveler, a Gadwall, 16 Golden Plover, 15 Redshank and five Lapwing.
Five Swallows, three Chiffchaffs and two Willow Warblers were at Adare.
Swallows were also reported at Ballysteen and Grouse Lodge.
Saturday 2nd April 2011
A single Swallow was seen on the Roxboro Road in Limerick City. The first Swallow report this year in Limerick.
A Long-eared Owl was heard calling at Ballyorgan.
Friday 1st April 2011
There was 100 Sand Martins at Westfields.
Sunday 27th March 2011
Three Buzzards were seen at Monaleen, Castletroy this afternoon. The birds were calling, circling overhead and slowly drifting westwards.
Saturday 26th March 2011
Singing Chaffchaffs were reported from several locations including four at Lough Gur, two at Knockderc, one at Coonagh and one at Ashbrook, Limerick City.
A flock of 400 Sand Martins was at Lough Gur. A smaller group of 15 was also seen at Healy’s Field, Corbally.
80 Redshank, five Dunlin, two Ringed Plover, two Curlew, 40 Tufted Duck, 25 Wigeon, six Mallard, five Pochard, four Gadwall, two Shelduck , a Little Egret, ten Mute Swans and 60 Coot were at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds.
Friday 25th March 2011
A Chiffchaff was in song at Monaleen.
20 Sand Martins were at Annacotty.
Wednesday 23rd March 2011
A Chiffchaff was in song at Westfields.
Tuesday 22nd March 2011
A Green-winged Teal was found at the Coonagh Settlements Ponds this morning (James Hayes). Other birds of note included a Chiffchaff and two Little Egrets.
Green-winged Teal at Coonagh © James Hayes
Sunday 20th March 2011
Four Hen Harriers and two Peregrine Falcons were seen in the west Limerick uplands.
A Peregrine Falcon was also seen near Kilmeedy.
Seperate flocks of 22 and 15 Golden Plover were also seen migrating northwards in the same area.
Friday 18th March 2011
A Chiffchaff was reported at Plassey.
Thursday 17th March 2011
Twenty Sand Martins were reported on the Shannon at Plassey this morning, with the same number reported again down river at Corbally in the evening. Two more were also seen at Castlemahon.
A Chiffchaff was in song at Ashford.
A pair of Kingfishers was seen at Plassey.
A pair of Dippers were on the Deel at Castlemahon.
A flock of 95 Golden Plover was at Tournafulla.
Two Red Grouse were seen in the West Limerick hills.
Single Ravens were reported from Castletroy and Ballysteen.
Red Grouse in West Limerick © James Hayes
Wednesday 16th March 2011
There were two Red Grouse, one male Hen Harrier and eight Crossbills at the west Limerick Hills.
Tuesday 15th March 2011
Two Brambling and 8 Jays were at Curraghchase.
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A Blackcap was in Raheen.Friday 11th March 2011
20 Stock Doves were at Ballysteen.
Blackcaps were reported from Cappamore and Raheen.
Two Brambling and 8 Jays were at Curraghchase.
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A Blackcap was in Raheen.Friday 11th March 2011
20 Stock Doves were at Ballysteen.
Blackcaps were reported from Cappamore and Raheen.
Thursday 10th March 2011
Dippers were reported from the Maigue at Croom and the Demense at Newcastle West
Tuesday 8th March 2011
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A Red Grouse was seen on the Slieve Felim hills.
One Goldeneye, 48 Tufted Duck and 164 Cormorants were at Bunlicky Lagoon.
Monday 7th March 2011
A flock of 45 Stock Doves was in the Ballysteen area.
Stock Dove at Ballysteen © James Hayes
Sunday 6th March 2011
A Water Rail and four Treecreepers were at Corbally.
There was a flock of 42 Stock Doves at Ballysteen.
Blackcaps were reported at Raheen and Cappamore.
Saturday 5th March 2011
A Waxwing was seen in a garden in Rathkeale.
Friday 4th March 2011
A Chiffchaff, 12 Ringed Plover, ten Dunlin, 22 Pochard, two Gadwall, one Merlin, one Water Rail and a Little Egret were the main birds of note at Coonagh.
The Black Swan and three Turnstone were at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Seven Jays were at Currachase.
One Peregrine was at Rathkeale.
Two Blackcaps, one male and one female, were in a garden at Raheen.
A male Blackcap was also reported from Corbally.Thursday 3rd March 2011
A Kingfisher was at Corbally.
Two Blackcaps, one male and one female, were in a garden at Raheen.
A male Blackcap was also reported from Corbally.Thursday 3rd March 2011
A Kingfisher was at Corbally.
Wednesday 2nd March 2011
Two Goosanders and two Kingfishers were at Corbally (Maura Turner).
Tuesday 1st March 2011
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at Westfield’s Marsh (John N Murphy).
Seven Bramblings and a Jay were at the Curraghchase.
One Chiffchaff, two Stock Doves and two Little Egrets were at Coonagh.
Two drake Scaup were at Lough Gur.
The Black Swan was still at O’ Callaghan’s Strand.
Monday 28th February 2011
The Black Swan was back at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
One male and one female Blackcap were at a private garden in Raheen.Sunday 27th February 2011
A flock of 36 Stock Doves and a Merlin were reported at Ballysteen.
A Peregrine Falcon was reported from the Mullaghareirk Mountains.
A flock of 36 Stock Doves and a Merlin were reported at Ballysteen.
A Peregrine Falcon was reported from the Mullaghareirk Mountains.
Peregrine Falcon © Roy Lathwell
Friday 25th February 2011
There was two Crossbills and a Peregrine Falcon at Slieve Felim.
Five Brambling were at Glenstal Abbey.
An adult summer Mediterranean Gull, a Kingfisher and two Little Egrets were at Coonagh.
Two Goosanders were on the Shannon at Corbally (Maura Turner).
Wednesday 23rd February 2011
A flock of 143 Whooper Swans was at Clarina.
A male Blackcap was in a garden in Raheen.
A pair of Ravens were at Newcastle, Castletroy this evening.
Tuesday 22nd February 2011
The two Goosanders were at Shannon Banks, Corbally (James Hayes).
The adut Ring-billed Gull was still at Howley’s Quay.
Linnet in a private garden at Newcastlewest © Mike SheehySunday 20th February 2011
Two female/immature Goosanders were on the Shannon at Corbally (Tom Tarpey).
Two female/immature Goosanders were on the Shannon at Corbally (Tom Tarpey).
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at Howley’s Quay.Saturday 19th February 2011
A Green Sandpiper and a Kingfisher were at the quay in Askeaton.
A Green Sandpiper and a Kingfisher were at the quay in Askeaton.
Thursday 17th February 2011
There was at least one Mealy Redpoll within a flock of 14 Lesser Redpolls and three Chiffchaffs, including two possible ‘tristis’ birds, at the Coonagh Settlement ponds earlier today (John N Murphy & James Hayes).
Other birds of note at the same site were 100 Teal, 63 Wigeon, 51 Tufted Duck, 20 Shoveler, one Pochard, three Pintail, three Water Rails, 48 Lapwing, 23 Dunlin, 12 Skylark and a Little Egret.
Chiffchaff “tristis type” at Coonagh © John N MurphyTuesday 15th February 2011
A Mealy Redpoll, two Chiffchaffs, 14 Skylarks, 133 Teal, 60 Wigeon, 40 Tufted Duck, 31 Shoveler, three Shelduck, 90 Lapwing, one Greenshank, one Whooper Swan and 16 Mute Swans were at Coonagh (James Hayes).
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Three Blackcaps, two males and a female, were at Raheen.
A Mealy Redpoll, two Chiffchaffs, 14 Skylarks, 133 Teal, 60 Wigeon, 40 Tufted Duck, 31 Shoveler, three Shelduck, 90 Lapwing, one Greenshank, one Whooper Swan and 16 Mute Swans were at Coonagh (James Hayes).
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Three Blackcaps, two males and a female, were at Raheen.
Sunday 13th February 2011,
Two Buzzards were seen in west Limerick.
Saturday 12th February 2011
A Mealy Redpoll was reported in garden at Newcastle West (Geoff Hunt).
A male Hen Harrier was at Grouse Lodge, Carrigkerry.
Friday 11th February 2011
Two Little Egrets were at the Ballinacurra Creek.
Two Little Egrets were at the Ballinacurra Creek.
Thursday 10th February 2011
One male and one female Blackcap were at Raheen.
Wednesday 9th February 2011
Two male and one female Blackcaps were in a garden at Raheen.
One Little Egret was at Ballincurra Creek.
A Barn Owl was seen near Annacotty.
Tuesday 8th February 2011
The Black Swan was back at O”Callaghan’s Strand Limerick.
Also on the Shannon River near O’ Callaghan’s Strand was on Ring-billed Gull and two colour ringed Black-headed Gulls.
Two male Blackcaps were in a garden at Raheen.
Black Swan with Mute Swans Limerick City © John N Murphy
Yellow banded Black-headed Gull 252M © John N Murphy
Yellow banded Black-Headed Gull 208P © John N MurphyMonday 7th February 2011
A Little Egret was on the Shannon at the Mill Road, Corbally.
Blackcaps were reported from Corbally (two birds) and Raheen.
The remains of pair of dead Buzzards were recovered by a farmer in a field near Croagh. The birds had been seen in the area frequently since early January.
A Little Egret was on the Shannon at the Mill Road, Corbally.
Blackcaps were reported from Corbally (two birds) and Raheen.
The remains of pair of dead Buzzards were recovered by a farmer in a field near Croagh. The birds had been seen in the area frequently since early January.
Siskins have been reported from a number of gardens recently © Jane Griffin
Friday 3rd February 2011
There were two adult Mediterranean Gulls at Loghill.
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand (James Hayes & John N Murphy).
One male Blackcap was in a garden at Raheen.
Mediterranean Gulls at Loghill © John N MurphyWednesday 2nd February 2011
The two immature/female Goosanders were still at Shannon Banks, and one male Dipper was in full song at the Mill Road.
The two immature/female Goosanders were still at Shannon Banks, and one male Dipper was in full song at the Mill Road.
There were three adult Mediterranean Gulls in a flock of 2,000 Black-headed Gulls at Loughill.
Dipper at the Mill Road having a stretch © John N Murphy
Goosanders near Shannon Banks, Limerick © John N Murphy
Tuesday 1st February 2011
A single female Goosander was on the Shannon at Corbally (James Hayes).
Two adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A male Blackcap was in Raheen.
A single female Goosander was on the Shannon at Corbally (James Hayes).
Two adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A male Blackcap was in Raheen.
Goosander preening on a small island at Shannon Banks © James Hayes
Monday 31st January 2011
The two Goosanders were on the Shannon at Corbally today (Maura Turner).
The two Goosanders were on the Shannon at Corbally today (Maura Turner).
Sunday 30th January 2011
Two Mealy Redpolls and a Chiffchaff were at Coonagh (Geoff Hunt et al).
Two Goosanders and Dipper were on the Shannon near the Mill Road carpark, Corbally (Tom Tarpey et al.)
Blackcaps were reported from Monaleen (female) and Raheen (male).
Goosanders on the Shannon at Corbally © Tom Tarpey
Two Goosanders and Dipper were on the Shannon near the Mill Road carpark, Corbally (Tom Tarpey et al.)
Blackcaps were reported from Monaleen (female) and Raheen (male).
Goosanders on the Shannon at Corbally © Tom Tarpey
Saturday 29th January 2011
Two Hawfinches were at the Curraghchase (John Power & Denis O Sullivan).
Two female Goosanders were at Shannon Banks, Limerick City (Tom Tarpey). This is the second record of this species in Limerick, the first was also of a female, shot near Askeaton in January 1979.
There was at least three Mealy Redpolls (one adut male) and two Chiffchaffs at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds today (Tom Tarpey). Other birds of note there were two Gadwall and two Stock Doves.
Four Crossbills were seen on the Ballyhoura Mts near Ardpatrick.
One Barn Owl was seen near Pallaskenry.
An adult Ring-billed Gull was reported at Westfields.
Four Crossbills were seen on the Ballyhoura Mts near Ardpatrick.
One Barn Owl was seen near Pallaskenry.
An adult Ring-billed Gull was reported at Westfields.
Friday 28th January 2011
A Mealy Redpoll was seen in a garden in Raheen (James Hayes)
Wednesday 26th January 2011
A first winter male Lesser Scaup was reported at Lough Gur (Ciaran Cronin).
Two adult Mediterranean Gulls were at Loughill.
The Eastern Jackdaw was back in Raheen this morning. A male Blackcap was also in the area.
A Little Egret was at Askeaton.
Monday 24th January 2011
Four Hawfinches and a few Brambling were in Curraghchase (Harry Hussey et al).
There was up to three probable Mealy Redpolls at the Coonagh Settelment Ponds (Harry Hussey et al).
A Waxwing was seen at Church Road, Raheen.
Two adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A male Blackcap was report from Raheen.
Sunday 23rd January 2011
At least two Mealy Redpolls were at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds today along with the two possible ‘tristis’ Chiffchaffs (Tom Tarpey).
Other birds of note there were 25 Shoveler, 20 Pochard and a Whooper Swan.
One Waxwing was on the Church Road in Raheen.
One Waxwing was on the Church Road in Raheen.
A Little Egret was seen in the Clonmacken/Coonagh area.
Chiffchaffs showing characteristics of the Siberian race ‘tristis’ at Coonagh © Tom Tarpey
Saturday 22nd January 2011
A Mealy Redpoll was seen at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds today, along with two Chiffchaffs (James Hayes, Clodagh Glasgow).
Also at Coonagh were a flock of 50 Reed Buntings, 28 Shoveler, 15 Tufted Ducks, ten Teal, a Sparrowhawk and one Whooper Swan .
Mealy Redpoll at Coonagh © James Hayes
Thursday 20th January 2011
Two Hawfinches, seven Brambling and four Jays were at Curraghchase,(James Hayes).
A male Blackcap was in a garden in Reheen.
Wednesday 19th January 2011
The adult Ring-billed Gull and five Turnstones were at O’Callaghan’s Strand while a flock of 40 Siskins and 30 Long-tailed Tits was at Westfields.
One Little Egret and 16 Greylag Geese were on the Cement factory side of the Limerick tunnel.
Two male Blackcaps were at a garden in Raheen.
Tuesday 18th January 2011
Two Chiffchaffs were seen at the Coonagh Settlement Ponds this afternoon. Both birds were showing characteristics of the Siberian race ‘tristis’. Other birds of note there were a pair of Pintail (new species for the site) and a Shelduck , a lone Whooper Swan and a roosting flock of 250 Dunlin and 350 Lapwing.
Monaday 17th January 2011
Adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’Callaghan’s Strand and Westfields. Four Turnstone were also at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
A bird showing characteristics of Mealy Redpoll was in a garden at Raheen (see picture below).
Redpoll at Raheen © James Hayes
Sunday 16th January 2011
Two male Blackcaps were in a garden in Raheen.
Three Turnstone were at Clancy’s Strand and a flock of 35 Oystercatchers were on the green just east of Thomond Weir.
Thursday 13th January 2011
One male and one female Crossbill were in the Ballyhoura Hills.
One male Blackcap was in a garden at Raheen.
Tuesday 11th January 2011
A single Hawfinch, 20 Brambling and seven Jay were at Curraghchase today (John N Murphy and Finbarr MacGabhann).
A Ring-billed Gull was on the Shannon at Howley’s Quay (James Hayes), this bird was later spotted at Westfield’s (John N Murphy & Finbarr MacGabhann).
There were five Turnstone at the Slipway near St.Michael’s Rowing Club, a good inland record for Limerick City.
A male Blackcap was present in a garden at Raheen.
A male Blackcap was present in a garden at Raheen.
Hawfinch at the Curraghchase © John N Murphy
Sunday 9th January 2011
There were two Red Grouse at Lough Gay, Ashford.
A drake Gadwall at Westfield’s Lake © Mike Flanagan
Saturday 8th January 2011
A single Waxwing was seen with a mixed flock of finches and sparrows in a garden at Raheen.
Friday 7th January 2011
A single Waxwing was seen with a mixed flock of finches and sparrows in a garden at Raheen.
Friday 7th January 2011
A sub-adult Yellow-legged Gull (michieallis) was seen on Thomond Weir at Brown’s Quay in Limerick (Paul Troake).
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Three male Blackcaps were seen in a garden in Raheen today.
Two Brambling were at Castlemahon.
Four Ravens were seen near Raheen.
An adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Three male Blackcaps were seen in a garden in Raheen today.
Two Brambling were at Castlemahon.
Four Ravens were seen near Raheen.
Adult Yellow legged Gull digiscoped in Limerick © Paul Troake
Blackcaps in Raheen © James Hayes
Blackcaps in Raheen © James Hayes
Thursday 6th January 2011
Two male Blackcaps were seen in a garden in Raheen.
Wednesday 5th January 2011
A single Waxwing was seen in a garden in Raheen today. A Blackcap was also in seen in Raheen.
Tuesday 4th January 2011
A single Waxwing was seen at the Court junction on the N69 near Kildimo.
One adult Ring-billed Gull was at O’Callaghan’s Strand.
Two male Blackcaps and a Siskin were in a garden in Raheen.
Siskin at Raheen © James Hayes
Sunday 2nd January 2011
A Waxwing was reported at Adare Manor.
Saturday 1st January 2011
There were two Hawfinches, three Jays and a Brambling at the Curragh Chase this morning (Clodagh Glasgow & James Hayes).
Blackcaps were reported at several locations with females at Castletroy, Castleconnell and Old Kildimo(one to two birds) and males at Raheen and Kilmoreen/Old Kildimo(two birds).
A flock of 32 Whooper Swans was seen at Newtown, Clarina.
Two adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’ Callaghan’s Strand a third bird was seen at Westfields.
545 Wigeon, 325 Tufted Duck, 54 Mallard, 38 Teal, 12 Shoveler, four Gadwall , two Pochard and a Scaup were at Lough Gur along with 13 Lapwing, 48 Coot and five Mute Swans.
There were 42 Tufted Duck, three Mallard, two Pochard, two Goldeneye and six Redshank were at Bunlicky.
Scaup at Lough Gur © James Hayes
One of two Ring-billed Gulls at O’Callaghan’s Strand © James Hayes
Leave a comment Blackcaps were reported at several locations with females at Castletroy, Castleconnell and Old Kildimo(one to two birds) and males at Raheen and Kilmoreen/Old Kildimo(two birds).
A flock of 32 Whooper Swans was seen at Newtown, Clarina.
Two adult Ring-billed Gulls were at O’ Callaghan’s Strand a third bird was seen at Westfields.
545 Wigeon, 325 Tufted Duck, 54 Mallard, 38 Teal, 12 Shoveler, four Gadwall , two Pochard and a Scaup were at Lough Gur along with 13 Lapwing, 48 Coot and five Mute Swans.
There were 42 Tufted Duck, three Mallard, two Pochard, two Goldeneye and six Redshank were at Bunlicky.
Scaup at Lough Gur © James Hayes
One of two Ring-billed Gulls at O’Callaghan’s Strand © James Hayes
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