Photos from Dundalk outing

Dundalk Docks by Michael Mc Nulty

brent geese by Michael Mc Nulty

black tailed godwit in summer plumage by Michael Mc Nulty

Monaghan and Cavan Branch Members by Martin Mc Kenna

March outing to Dundalk Bay

Report by Elizabeth

A joint outing to Dundalk bay with the Monaghan branch of Birdwatch Ireland took place on Sunday 25^th March. We met at the Dundalk docks at 11am, where we were joined by Gerry O’Neill of the Louth Branch. There was a great turnout, with the lovely March weather providing ideal conditions for the photographers of the group. Birds sighted included little egrets, brent geese, teal, ruff and black-tailed godwit (one of which had coloured leg rings). Details of the leg rings will be sent on to Jim Wilson who is  involved with the black-tailed godwit ringing project and we look forward to learning about the birds history to date.
After about an hour and a half at the docks we left for Blackrock in search of twite. Unfortunately the twite failed to make an appearance but we took advantage of the opportunity to take a few group photos! Our next stop was Lurgangreen where we spotted pintail, a buzzard and large flocks of gulls, godwits and brent geese, as well as a few greylags. After taking in the atmospheric scene of geese flocks flying in to feed in the Spring sunshine, we enjoyed a late lunch before heading home. Thanks to Gerry O Neill for his help on the day and to Joe and all the Monaghan Branch members for their good company. We look forward to planning a future joint event later in the year!

Joint Cavan and Monaghan Branch outing Sunday 25 March

Brent Geese flock at Soldier's Point, Dundalk

A joint outing with the Monaghan Branch to Dundalk bay will be held on Sunday 25^th March. Meet at Dundalk Docks at 11.00am. We will also be joined by Breffni Martin of the Louth Branch for the outing. If you wish to car share from Bailieborough email Elizabeth at elizmckenna@eircom.net in advance. The outing is timed to coincide with an incoming tide to maximise our chances of getting close views of waders and other waterbirds. This time of year is our best opportunity to see Black-tailed Godwits coming into their stunning summer plumage before they leave for their breeding grounds in Iceland. To learn more about the migration of the Black-tailed Godwit and the International Schools Godwit project check out the following link: http://www.scoiliosaefnaofa.com/Godwit.htm

Packed lunch and waterproof clothing recommended! 

More information on branch events can be found on the Birdwatch Ireland website.http://www.birdwatchireland.ie/

" Extraordinary Survivors: Wildlife of The Antarctic" Talk in Mullagh

Jonathan and some Birdwatch Ireland Branch members

Photo Jonathan Shackleton

Report by Heather

A full house in St Killian’s heritage centre Mullagh greatly enjoyed Johnathan Shackleton's talk.
Johnathan, an experienced Antarctic expedition leader, first entertained with tales of the heroic age of Antarctic exploration, when men such as Scott, Amundsen and Ernest Shackleton  explored Antarctica.
 The talk was beautifully illustrated with shots of whales, orcas , seal species, skuas, albatrosses, petrels, and  the carrion feeder the snowy sheathbill.
Johnathan admitted he was a bit of a penguin fanatic and described the different species and how the distribution is being affected by climate change.
We also saw photographic evidence of the Cavan County Flag unfurled in Antarctica!

Photography Workshop by Des Connors

photo Des Connors

 "Photographing the Kingfisher"


A photography workshop by Des Connors will take place on Thursday 23 February from 7pm -  8pm, Johnson Central Library, Farnham Street, Cavan.


This event is hosted by the Irish Wildlife Trust Cavan Branch and should be of interest to anyone with an interest in wildlife or nature photography. Admission free and all welcome.

Talk by Jonathan Shackleton,Mullagh

 " Extraordinary Survivors: Wildlife of The Antarctic" 

Photo by Jonathan Shackleton

A presentation by Jonathan Shackleton will take place in

 St Killian's Heritage Centre, Mullagh on Wednesday 15th February at 8pm.


Jonathan has visited Antarctica numerous times, partly because of the obvious family interest but also for the extraordinary wildlife and magnificent scenery. His talk will be  well illustrated and all are welcome to attend.
 No admission charge  but a small donation to cover costs would be welcome.

For information on branch events visit the Birdwatch Ireland website http://www.birdwatchireland.ie/Default.aspx?tabid=284