Nesting boxes for Guillemots at Gyles Quay and Greenore
Thanks to the efforts of the local branch of Birdwatch Ireland, artificial nesting holes have been put in place for the birds, described as ‘the penguins of the northern hemisphere’ at Gyles Quay and Clogherhead, and at Greenore.
Breffni Martin from Birdwatch explains that the pier wall at Gyles Quay was damaged during the winter storms.
“Following discussion between myself and Donal Clark of Louth County Council, we managed to put in place artificial nesting holes in the quay wall in the form of pipes inserted into the quay wall. The birds are taking well to their new homes and we hope to see a good population increase at the end of the breeding season.”
There are now sixteen pairs of guillemots nesting at Gyles Quay, which is an increase on last year’s numbers.
New nesting cavities have also been created for the birds at Clogherhead, but Breffni says that “the area is a bit more problematic and so far the birds are showing little interest but that may change when they start laying”.
Special nesting boxes are about to be intalled on the breakwater of Greenore thanks to the co-operation of the port company and students from Bush Post-Primary School.
Wooden boxes are being constructed by woodwork students who will be able to follow the usage of their nests which will have their names on them.
Breffni says he is very grateful for the co-operation he has received for these projects, particularly Donal Clark of Louth County Council.
