Explore Wicklow’s Diverse Bird Species During Free National Heritage Week Events!

On August 16, you can experience a bird of prey demonstration at Russborough House in Blessington. From 1:30 PM to 2:15 PM, an expert team will showcase impressive birds. They’ll explain their nesting habits, survival routes, and the important roles they play in our ecosystem.

A few days later, on August 19 from 6 PM to 8 PM, Arklow Library will host a special talk about barn owls. Author and ornithologist Oran O’Sullivan will discuss how this iconic bird is making a comeback in Wicklow. After the talk, you can join a workshop led by guide Ruairí Mac an Tuile to learn about what barn owls eat by examining their pellets.

On August 20, from 7 PM to 8:30 PM, enjoy a birdwatching walk along the Vartry River and Reservoir, hosted by East Wicklow Rivers Trust and the Roundwood Tidy Towns Biodiversity Group.

Finally, on August 19, BirdWatch Ireland experts will lead an evening nature walk at the East Coast Nature Reserve from 7 PM to 8:30 PM. This 1.5-hour event will take you through a variety of trails and observation hides, where you can discover different birds, insects, and plants native to the area.

Niall Hatch, head of communications at BirdWatch Ireland, emphasizes that this time of year is perfect for such events. Many summer migrants are still around, winding down their breeding season before heading off to warmer lands.

He mentions, “We hope to spot swallows, house martins, and sand martins catching insects before their journey to Africa.” He also hopes to see the great spotted woodpecker, which has been observed more frequently in Ireland over the last 20 years.

Hatch describes the walk as family-friendly and not too difficult. It features various habitats, like hedgerows and boardwalks, making it ideal for wildlife spotting. This time of year, you’ll likely encounter butterflies and dragonflies, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the nature reserve.

These events offer a wonderful opportunity to learn about and appreciate the natural world around us. For more details, you can visit Russborough House or email Arklow Library.

Related Fact: According to the National Biodiversity Data Centre, Ireland’s bird population has seen significant changes, with some species, like the barn owl, showing positive trends due to conservation efforts.

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Eoin Mac Raghnaill, National Heritage Week