Mediterranean Gull

While in Dun Laoghaire the were up to 24 Mediterranean Gulls scattered throughout the Harbour.  This number was down on past visits and observations at this site. One adult winter bird was wearing a colour ring (2XE7), as can be seen from the attached photos.

Mediterranean Gulls © John N Murphy

Iceland Gull

While I was on the east Pier at Dun Laoghaire today, I could see a white-winged Gull in the distance flying along the west pier.  I scooted over to the Fish Shop where, when I arrived this first-winter Iceland was sitting on top of a Fishing Boat.  As I was taking shots Jimmy 'The Pecker' Murphy from North Wexford arrived, as he had spotted the bird earlier and seen me taking shots on the fishing pier.  We didn't get much of a chance for a long chat as both of us were rushing off to other appointments, but we took a load of photos of this bird and Med Gulls flying around.

Iceland Gull near the west pier at Dun Laoghaire © John N Murphy

Atlantic Grey Seals

I visit the west pier at Dun Laoghaire where there were gulls gathering near the Fish Shop.  Here the Grey Seals were feasting on scraps thrown out by the fishermen.

Grey Seals eating fish scraps in Dublin Bay © John N Murphy

Grey Heron

I visited Kilbogget Park near Cabinteely while I was in Dublin today and observed this Grey Heron catch and eat what looks like a pond snail or tadpoll.  Not sure what it was, if you have any ideas I would like to hear your comments?

Grey Heron © John N Murphy

Rock Pipit pale bird

This pale, moulting almost partially leucistic Rock Pipit was at the small rocky beach as you approach the pier at Dun Laoghaire this afternoon.  I think the heavy wing and lower body moult makes the bird appear very washed out looking.

Pale Rock Pipit at Dun Laoghaire © John N Murphy

Purple Sandpiper

You can always be guaranteed to see Purple Sandpipers along the east Pier at Dun Laoghaire in winter.



Purple Sandpipers at Dun Laoghaire, Dublin © John N Murphy

Black Redstart

I was on the east wall of Dun Laoghaire Pier in Dublin City today where this Black Redstart was feeding in the bolder rocks near the start of the pier.



Black Redstart © John N Murphy