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!