Bird Watching

There are bird and wildlife sanctuaries all over the southeast where a huge variety of birds can be observed. Species such as Golden Plover, Crossbills, Pheasant, Heron, Sparowhawks, Duck, Dipper, Kittiwakes, Seabirds and Birds of Prey abound all along our coastline, and many sanctuaries and amenity areas available to those wishing to study this environment. Below is a list of popular Bird Watching locations in the region.

Bird Watching Cappamurra Bog (Dundrum, Tipperary)

Bird Watching In Ardmore (Ardmore, Waterford)
The spectacular 'dive bombing' methods of fishing by seabirds is best observed from the cliff walks area.

Bird Watching In Clonea (Dungarvan, Waterford)
This area is an excellent site for viewing Waders. Some 1,000 Barnacle Geese are to be seen wintering here from November to March.

Bird Watching in Dunmore East (Dunmore East, Waterford)
Many noisy Kittiwake nest in the steep cliffs overlooking Dunmore East harbour. This is one of the very few urban locations that provides good access and easy observation of these lively, colourful - albeit noisy seabirds.

Bird Watching In Nire Valley Area (Nire Valley, Waterford)
Good show of Dippers, Great Wagtails and Kingfishers.

Wexford Wildfowl Reserve (Wexford Town, Wexford)
Wexford Wildfowl Reserve, North Slob, Wexford, is Ireland's Premier Wildfowl Reserve.

Visiting the Reserve
Facilities include 'new' modern up-graded Visitor Centre, car park, picnic area, wildfowl collection and hides (including Observation Tower). Facilities are available for our more disabled visitors. Wexford Wildfowl Reserve is reached from Wexford by leaving the town over the River Slaney bridge on the main Gorey Road (R741). After travelling 2.92 km (1.8miles) north of the bridge, turn right (beside Grannal’s Mazda Garage) into Ardcavan Lane.

Opening Times
Summer: 16th April to 30th September, 0900 -1800 daily. Winter: 1st October to 15th April, 1000-1700 daily.

The Reserve may be closed temporarily for management operations - See notice on gate.
Guided tours can be arranged by request. Groups must book in advance.

Entry is Free.
Please obey the various notices and comply with requests by the reserve staff. The reserve only covers part of the North Slob. The rest is privately owned farmland and the owner’s permission must be obtained before entering these areas.