Descrição
The village of Avoca and the surrounding area is home to the largest concentration of Milhafre-real in Ireland. These birds were first reintroduced to Wicklow in 2007 and quickly established themselves as a breeding species in the county, particularly around Avoca. When visiting or passing through the village, it's almost impossible to not see at least one no matter the time of year! The winter months and early spring are the best time to see large numbers in and around the village, particularly on winter evenings as the birds gather in communal roosts in the woodlands surrounding the villages, with numbers sometimes reaching over 100 birds, making for quite the spectacle!
Avoca is also one of the best places in Ireland to see Merganso-grande. This species is still a very rare breeder in Ireland, with the breeding population slowing increasing. The best chance of seeing these handsome ducks is also during early spring on the Avoca River before they venture further upstream to breed.
The woodlands surrounding the village are also great for typical Irish woodland species, including the ever increasing Pica-pau-malhado-grande, Trepadeira-do-bosque and Gaio-comum.
There are multiple walking options within the village and surrounding area (see map) or one can explore car or by cycling.
Detalhes
Acesso
Avoca is located 10 km northwest of the town of Arklow. Parking is available at multiple locations in the village. Press a P on the map for directions to a parking spot. Buses to Avoca can be taken from Arklow or Rathdrum, which both have train stations on the Dublin - Wexford railway line.
Terreno e Habitat
Floresta , Cidade/Vila , RioCondições
Montanhoso , PlanoCaminho circular
Simé útil um telescópio?
NãoBoa temporada de observação de aves
Durante todo o anoMelhor hora para visitar
Inverno , PrimaveraRota
Estrada pavimentada , Caminho largo , Caminho estreitoCaminho dificil
Caminhada médiaAcessível por
Pé , Bicicleta , CarroAbrigo/plataforma deobservação de aves
NãoInformação extra
A visit to Avoca to see the Milhafre-real should be combined with a visit to Hendley's takeaway afterwards, particularly after seeing the Milhafre-real roost in the winter months. The fish and chips are some of the best in Wicklow!
The local butchers in the village sometimes throw out meat for the Milhafre-real and provide great photographic opportunities as the birds swoop down to pick up the scraps.
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