A trio of Tufted Ducks, with varying plumages. These ducks breed in small numbers in Ireland in the summer but in winter they are quite gregarious and can be found in good numbers on most waterways.
#birdsofmastodon #birds #ducks #birding #birdphotography #nature #naturephotography #wildlife #winter #wintermigrants #ireland #clare

A female Blackcap on the feeder. Traditionally they’re viewed as a summer species here but there are increasing numbers migrating here from Central Europe in the winter; due to milder winters & plentiful food in gardens. These have a shorter migration & get the better nesting sites the next summer. They have been observed to raise more chicks than those who migrate to the Mediterranean. It’s fascinating to see this change in range happening.
#birdsofmastodon #ireland #nature #birding

Had of pleasure of seeing Waxwings yesterday in Ennis. These beautiful birds are scarce winter visitors to Ireland but seem to be around in good numbers this year. Keep an eye on the berry trees!
#birdsofmastodon #birding #birds #ireland #clare #nature #Waxwings #winter #outdoors

A flock of Oystercatchers near Kilbaha, Co. Clare
#birdsofmastodon #birds #birding #coast #ireland #clare #nature #naturephotography #wildatlanticway

You know winter is coming when the Whooper Swans return from Iceland. These were part of the first group to arrive at Ballyalla Lake (Co. Clare) this year, about two weeks ago.
#birdsofmastodon #birds #birding #swans #ireland #clare #nature #wintermigration

Caught up with the Buff-Breasted Sandpiper that was out on Loop Head a few weeks ago. This scarce American vagrant was likely blown over to Ireland by the storms in September.
#birds #birdwatching #sandpipers #ireland #birdsofmastodon