Songbirds
Willow Warbler / Ceolaire sailí
What?
The power of birdsong is not to be underrated. You might notice a gentle song coming from outside the window when you open your eyes in the morning or perhaps you vaguely register a distant call as you walk the dog. But taking a few minutes to really listen can be very rewarding. If there are several voices singing at the same time, try to focus on just one and look for the bird itself. You might be able to recognise the song or the bird but even if you can’t, it is still a wonderful opportunity to relax and tune out of a busy day. The melody, the tone, repetition, volume - each type of bird has their own nuances.
Who?
Of course, birds don’t just sing for our benefit. Each bird song has meaning. Some birds are in full Barry White mode, declaring that they are the best choice for any single birds on the lookout for love. For others, it’s all about territory “this is my hedgerow, stay away!” If singing doesn’t do the job, then body language is a way to make the message clearer. Watch for Blackbirds (Lon dubh) fanning their tail wide or charging at rivals which can sometimes escalate into a full-scale brawl. Aerial displays are another way of getting attention. Look for Meadow pipits singing as they climb higher and higher into the air before parachuting back to earth in a crescendo of calls or the Skylark’s seemingly endless song from the sky above.
When?
The Robin (Spideog) is one of the few birds that sing all year round. However, the voices in the choir change at different times of year and spring is when the dawn chorus is at its best. From March onwards a whole host of arrivals join from both northern and southern regions. Chiffchaff (Tiuf-teaf), Willow warbler (Ceolaire sailí) and Grasshopper warbler (Ceolaire casarnaí)are some of the first to return, timing their journey to feed on the insects emerging in spring. Autumn welcomes Fieldfares (Sacán) and Redwings (Deargán sneachta), relatives of Thrushes, as they travel to feed on our seasonal berries. By matching the bird with the song, you will soon notice more and more of our little feathered friends on your daily travels, and maybe even whistling a little tune of your own as they brighten your day.
Blackbird
Robin
Willow warbler & Chiffchaff
Dunnock / Bráthair an dreoilín
Goldfinch / Lasar choille
Robin / Spideóg
Starling / Druid
Blackbird / Lon dubh
