Dundalk Bay outing, Sunday 22 February

 The Bird Hide at Lurgangreen

Our outing to Dundalk Bay began with a rainy start but soon cleared as we reached the hide at Lurgangreen.There we were met up with Louth Branch member Gerry O Neill. 
On view were a wide range of waders, ducks and geese. We also caught some wonderful sights of Yellowhammers as they perched in nearby bushes.

 yellowhammer at Lurgangreen

 curlew by Peter Mc Kenna

grey heron by Peter Mc Kenna

greenshank by Peter Mc Kenna

 As we continued on our journey we stopped along the way to watch large groups of wildfowl feeding in local fields.These included Brent,Greylag,White-fronted and Pink-footed Geese.

 Geese flock in fields close to Lurgangreen

The Harbour at Giles Quey by Freddy Mc Gavin

When we reached Giles Quay we were met by marvellous sunshine and caught some great close-up views of Dunlin, Ringed Plover and Sanderling as they sped along the seashore.

 Giles Quay Beach by Freddy Mc Gavin

ringed plover by Peter Mc Kenna

turnstone by Peter Mc Kenna

After a short Coffee break and short visit to Rockmarshall we finished for the day and continued on our journey homeward bound.

watching roosting waders at Rockmarshall 

Rockmarshall  Freddy Mc Gavin.

 A stormy scene at Giles Quay

Photo Freddy Mc Gavin

 All in all it was a most enjoyable day with some breathtaking views and a large variety of birds spotted.Many thanks to Elizabeth,Gerry, PJ and Michael for all their help on the day.

Report by Branch Member Freddy Mc Gavin 

Changes had to be made to our itinerary on the day due to the bad weather. We are very grateful to Gerry for coming along and opening up the hide and for his help on the day

For infomration on bird sightings visit the Louth Birds Blog here 
For information on where to watch birds in Louth click here