Lighthouse Island, Northern Ireland

I met up with a wonderful group of ringers on Lighthouse Island (kind thanks to the BTO for the opportunity via a sea bird grant). Roisin (Duty Officer), Kez, Jen, Carla, Natasha, Tonya and I were joined by a lovely family Emma, Joe, Jo and Arlo for the weekend. Also making up the team was Fran, a professional photographer who has made many trips to the Island.

We arrived courtesey of The Island Lady piloted by Philip MacNamara.

Volunteers have operated a Bird Observatory (currently Northern Ireland’s only Bird Observatory) on [Old] Lighthouse Island, Copeland Islands, County Down since 1954. Copeland Bird Observatory (CBO) volunteers conduct ornithological and other scientific research to conserve birds and other fauna and flora that can be found on the Island.

The Island is 40 metres high and 16 hectares (40 acres) in area, with a cliff on the east side and gentle slopes elsewhere leading to a rocky shoreline. There is a bothy style accommodation for up to 12 overnight visitors. There are four bedrooms , a self-catering kitchen and a comfortable lounge with a fire.

Photo courtesy of Natasha.

The Island is part of a Special Protection Area and part of an Area of Special Scientific Interest as it is an important breeding site for Manx Shearwater and Arctic Tern. Over 50 species of birds have been recorded as breeding on the islands in recent years including roughly 4000+ pairs of Manx Shearwaters, Arctic Terns and important populations of Black Guillemot, Common Gulls, Eiders, Puffin and Stock Dove. The Island is also an important hotspot for migratory passerine birds.

Courtesey of Kez.

We had a successful weekend mistnetting and using a variety of methods for trapping passerines. Including pied wagtail, reed bunting, blackcap, song thrush, wren, willow warbler and robin. We caught up with over 20 Manx Shearwater adults on the first night and over the two days we colour ringed over 100 Herring and Lesser Black Backed gull chicks. The moth trap produced some fabulous moths including a huge emergence of Garden Tiger Moths and a Poplar Hawk Moth.

Lots of new experiences were had and friendships were made. A supportive and thhoroughly enjoyable weekend.

Thanks to Roisin, Kez and Jen for making the experience so amazing.