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/