Pros: Quality finish and materials. Robust construction. Easy and convenient to dismantle and clean (no tools required). Innovative "feeding rings". Ventilation system keeps food fresh.Cons: None so far.Rating: Highly RecommendedPrice: from €21.95 for the 3-port feeder to €31.95 for the 7-port feederAn excellent all-round seed feeder that's built to last from … [Read more...] about Gear Review: CJ Wildlife Apollo “Easy Clean” Seed Feeder
garden birds
Dunnock (Prunella modularis)
The dunnock is a small brown bird that is a common, if rather shy visitor to many Irish gardens. Still referred to by many by its old name of hedge sparrow, the dunnock isn't actually related to the sparrows at all. It is the only Irish representative of the accentor family – a group of small ground and scrub dwelling birds that hop around in a characteristically crouched … [Read more...] about Dunnock (Prunella modularis)
Wildlife, whatever the weather
Looking at weather maps lately has been a depressing affair.Ireland has been permanently obscured beneath a swirling, seething mass of rain and wind, and as usual our little patch of the south west coast seems to be getting more than its fair share of the onslaught. Yesterday was a day to stay inside by the fire... watching naff Christmas telly. It was certainly not a day … [Read more...] about Wildlife, whatever the weather
Christmas Competition: bird food, feeder and a festive treat
Thanks to our friends over at CJ Wildlife (Ireland's Wildlife's Official Bird Food Partner) we have a fabulous prize to give away to one lucky winner at the end of the week.Up for grabs are:A 10kg bag of CJ Wildlife's fabulous "Hi Energy No Mess" seed mix A Medium Defender Metal Seed Feeder A Festive Suet SnowmanTo enter all you have to do is fill in your … [Read more...] about Christmas Competition: bird food, feeder and a festive treat
Goldcrest (Regulus regulus)
The diminutive goldcrest is not only Ireland's smallest bird, but also Europe's – a title it shares with its close relative the firecrest. It is widespread and found throughout the country, and often visits gardens, especially during winter months. Despite it's restless, flitting behaviour and distinctive markings this bird's tiny size makes it easy to overlook. Reaching just … [Read more...] about Goldcrest (Regulus regulus)
