Tolka Outing to Co Louth. Saturday 18 February 2007

15 intrepid Tolka-ites braved the bright sunshine and clear skies of Co Louth on a Birding Expedition to the North-east coast. The high tide at the docks meant we started our quest at Gyles Quay on the Northern side of Dundalk Bay. Here we had Great Northern Diver, Red-breasted Mergansers in spring mood, Common Scoters and up to eight Long-tailed Ducks. Sunny and clear conditions made for great viewing.Back to Dundalk docks and waders included good flocks of Golden Plover, a Ruff and a Reeve,while -prize bird- the Long-billed Dowitcher put on a good show for us. Little Egret, Teal and Greenshank were also present.

We then continued South to Lurgangreen where three Ravens passed over us, Wigeon and Shelduck were plentiful on the mudflats. On to Anagassan and Brent Geese and Knot on the shore with a single male Goldeneye in the sea. Salterstown produced a beautiful Buzzard on a telegraph pole and Cruisetown strand a second-winter Mediterranean Gull.

A beautiful day for birding and 15 happy campers called it a day at Baltray at about 4.30pm.

Species List: