29/08/2025
This year's Manx Shearwater fledglings have been stranding in unprecedented numbers around the Di**le peninsula, with Ballyferriter, Dun an Oir and Ballydavid so far the hotspots, but plenty of birds around Di**le town as well.
The Di**le peninsula is apparently one of the worst places in rural Ireland for light pollution- the major factor for drawing in these light sensitive birds - and very strong onshore winds wouldn't have helped their attempt to reach the open Atlantic for the first big migration of their lives, to the waters off South America.
As their feet are very far set back on their bodies, it is near impossible for them to take off from flat surfaces, therefore a dedicated group of volunteers, which is growing every year(!) is on standby to pick up any stranded birds and release them again at night, when the birds are safe from predation by the gulls.
While there are a good few people 'patrolling' some of the better known spots where the birds are likely to crash land, we rely in a big way on members of the public spotting them, picking them up and giving us a call.
So keep an eye out for any pigeon sized, black and white web footed birds that may look injured but are, in fact, simply unable to take off again under their own steam.
Maybe put a cardboard box in the car, keep your eyes peeled and switch off any bright and unnecessary outside lights for the next fortnight or so.
Thank you!!!
