Glendalough Dawn Chorus Walk

Photo: The Wicklow Way.

Well, summer may still be teasing us before freezing us again, but the birds are busy getting ready for nesting and noisier in the early morning, writes Brian Byrne.

It's getting close to big dawn chorus time, and if you feel like an early hike and an informative morning, you might consider the Dawn Chorus Walk hosted by Irish Hillwalkers and The Wicklow Way on Sunday 13 May, starting at 5am in Glendalough.

Organised by Wicklow Mountains National Park, it's a free event and no booking is required, just turn up to the Upper Lake Car Park for the 1.5 hours trek. All ages welcome, but no dogs, and Wicklow County Council charges €4 for car parking.

On the guided walk, listen to the birds. Learn their songs. Glendalough is home to one of Ireland’s newest species of breeding birds, the Great Spotted Woodpecker, and it is hoped to hear them drumming. Bring a flask for afterwards.

For more information, please phone the National Park Information Office 0404 45425 or Education Centre 0404 45656.