The annual squabble

 Its a time old tradition that come the end of April the Cuckoos presence causes the local birds such as this Meadow Pipit to squabble with it.

Instict knows that the Cuckoo is a threat.

This annual drama played out at Doonagore bog

Blackcap

 Its the 1st day of sun in what feels like years , an early local walk into Ballyea forest plantation for singing birds

It was the 1st day of the Cuckoo calling and a reason to keep walking

The countryside abounds in song , the warbling melody of the Blackcap can be heard in what seems every available thicket , woodland and orchard out here in west Clare

Ringed Rock Pipit still at Clahane

 I was about when these birds at Clahane were being caught and ringed so I tend to look out for them.

This one caught my eye as to the brown that was showing through its wing feathers and its one of the ringed Rockies

then realising that ive not published photos taken earlier 25/3/2014 , so

Red throated Diver at Liscannor harbour

 A Red throated Diver has been close to Liscannor harbour over the winter but the weather just has not been good enough to capture the bird in the camera, but today the sun has finally come out and with a high tide this bird was close to the harbour wall steps

Lahanch bay holds good wintering numbers of Red throated Divers and can be seen around the surf, generally mid bay or around the outskirts of the Common Scoter flock where they catch fish that the ducks flush as they dive and turn up the sand for Clams.

The ultimate Red Squirell

 Sometimes there can be moments when wildlife trusts in you.

Some of us travel far to experience wildlife encounters yet the best can be found close to home.

This stunning Red Squirrel was content with me sharing its woodland home not far from my home.

The woodland itself was quite open and the early morning spring  sunlight played for the camera settings.

Juvenile Crossbill

 I said Id come back later during the month to check on the Crossbills in a forest not far from home.

A good few birds were seen while calling in the air as they past to different parts of the wood.

A lone juvenile bird was just sitting high up waiting for parents to arrive , I also was waiting for this moment but it never happened. I managed a few small short videos from my scope 

The garden Siskins

 There seemed to be a lot of interest coming from peoples gardens this winter as to the little green garden birds, they certainly were in good numbers this winter for sure.

I have them in my garden every winter but had a steady 10 individuals this winter.

A hardy little bird that certainly competes at the feeders