January 17, 2013

Amorous Rook





Its a time of year when Rooks re-inforce their bonding just before breeding season. Rooks are one of the first birds to breed in spring. This bird was preening its partner with care and attention  and she looked pleased.

January 13, 2013

American Coot






We arrived at Murlach Lough ,Ballyconeely early morning to find a rare American Coot. I started searching through the flooded fields to the west ,where after an hour I spotted the bird on the north end but it was elusive,after another hour I found it in a corner on the south near a few walls ,where we got some photos.
We also got to see the Green winged  Teal on the lough

Ring billed Gull on the slipway



A Ring billed Gull was among the Gulls at Nimmos pier in Galway , but no white winged gulls were here today, maybe we need a cold snap or a NW storm for them to come into harbour for winter.

January 10, 2013

Light bellied Brent Geese






A flock of Light bellied Brent Geese were in Ballyvaughan harbour on the high tide, the birds were so busy feeding they allowed us some close up views in a nice afternoon light.

January 8, 2013

Brown waves on the reefs






The sun comes out and  a nice swell breaks across the Lahinch reefs, enjoyed by a handful of local surfers.
The rusty brown waves are a result of river water that runs into both ends of Lahinch bay, there has been a lot of rain!