Enjoy magical dawn chorus with Birdwatch Ireland Mayo branch

THE annual dawn chorus is probably one of the most popular events in any birdwatchers calendar. It takes place every May and all over the country individuals and groups set out just before the early morning light to hear many species of song birds all singing at the same time.

The Mayo Branch of Birdwatch Ireland are holding a special outing on Sunday, May 7, open to members and non-members, in the grounds of Enniscoe House, near Crossmolina.

The meeting point is the car park of the North Mayo Heritage Centre at 7 a.m. If there's a large attendance the walk will be split into two groups.

Branch PRO George Keegan encourages everyone, young and not so young, who cares about nature not to miss this opportunity.

“If you haven’t heard the dawn chorus before I can assure you it’s a magical experience and you are in for a treat. Well worth getting up a little earlier than usual for a Sunday morning,” he said.

While the guided walk is free of charge the branch points out that a small donation towards funds would be very helpful.

The next outing is scheduled for the end of the month with a visit to Foxford on Saturday, May 27, to walk along the Moy. Of particular interest should hopefully be watching nesting sand Martins.

Details and time will appear on social media platforms closer to the date.

The Mayo website is birdwatchingmayo.org.