How to get birds to nest in my garden?  Nesting birds are wonderful to observe, and it can be riveting to see a bird nesting close to your home. From those initial stages of finding a safe nesting spot and collecting nesting material, to the actual egg-laying stage. What a delight it is when the gift of eggs arrives, a sign of baby birds to come. And after some patient waiting, the egg pips. A small beak prying the shell. If you’re lucky you’ll spy the chicks as they feed and grow, eventually...

Staycation on Ireland’s East Cork Bird Trail If you’re an East Cork local looking for safe lockdown activities then you’re in luck! There are phenomenal bird watching opportunities stretching over 100km East of the City of Cork. If you’re from further afield, then make sure you add East Cork to your list of birding destinations for when travel is more flexible.    About East Cork Birding is high up on the list of things to do in East Cork, along with the wealth of cultural and hi...

Food and nesting space are simple answers! Birds migrate to improve their chances of survival and reproductive success, and while temperature may influence migration, birds can survive in very cold conditions. Their main reason for migrating is to follow their stomachs (aka food) and find safe spaces to nest. It’s one of the wonders of the natural world and, if you’re fortunate enough to witness migrating birds en masse, it’s a spectacular sight. Many birds migrate in line with vegetation cha...

Family time, birdwatching is an activity for everyone   The memory of waking up early to drive to special places is a key takeaway from my childhood. Nature, wildlife, and especially keeping track of birdlife have all been a part of my family for as long as I can remember. My father always packed a bird book in the car, and since we loved seeing places off the beaten track, we were often blessed with some incredible sightings. Sharing the joy of nature with your children in a pursuit you e...