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Description
Lough Atalia is a tidal estuary close to Galway City. Despite the tidal nature of the lough, a high level of water generaly remains even at low tide. In winter, flocks of Gargönd, Brandönd, Urtönd and Rauðhöfðaönd can be encountered here most days. Fjöruspói, Lyngstelkur, Vepja and Hrossagaukur can also be readily observed here. These species can often be close to the paths and shore and offer excellent opportunities for photography without disturbing the birds, especially for species like Gargönd, Rauðhöfðaönd and Hrossagaukur which are normally observed from afar in Ireland. Further out in the Lough, Dverggoði and Toppgoði can be seen and sometimes Himbrimi and Lómur come in from the coast to forage.
In the summer, Lough Atalia is much quieter, however there are rafts in the middle of the lough where Sílaþerna have been breeding over the last few summers and the birds can be seen regulalry commuting and fishing around the lough.
Bláþyrill can also be encountered at Lough Atalia throughout the year, with some great photographic opportunties if you're lucky! Rarities that have been recorded here recently include Bognefur and Kólfönd.
Details
Access
Lough Atalia is a five minte walk from Galway train station and Eyre Square. It's also possible to park at the northern end of the lough. Press P on the map for directions to the parking. The western and northern ends of the lough are easily walkable. It's possible to walk along some of the eastern end but beware of wet and muddy sections and disturbing the birds along here.
Terrain and Habitat
Lake , Scattered trees and bushes , Wetland , City/village , ReedbedsConditions
FlatCircular trail
NoIs a telescope useful?
Can be usefulGood birding season
All year roundBest time to visit
Winter , SpringRoute
Paved road , Narrow trail , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
EasyAccessible by
Foot , Bicycle , CarBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
Lough Atalia is also an excellent location for seeing Galway Citys Otters. If you visit early in the morning or late in the evening, you might be lucky and see them on the shore or foraging in the lough, with great opportunties for photography and filming.