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Description
The Ridge of Cappard is part of the Slieve Blooms Mountain range straddling the Laois and Offaly border. This mountain range has some of the most important breeding populations of Poljska eja and Red Grouse in Ireland. Both species can be seen when walking through this part of the mountain range, and witnessing sky dancing Poljska eja on a sunny spring morning is one of the greatest Irish wildlife spectacles.
The trail described here follows the boardwalk and beyond to The Stony Man. The boardwalk (blue route) runs for 2 km through heath and bogland. It's possible to continue on beyond the bordwalk and walk to The Stony Man along the Slieve Bloom Way (yellow route). The Stony Man is a stone cairn, and this spot provides an excellent vantage point over the surrounding landscape. Red Grouse can be encountered while walking along the boardwalk and scanning the surrounding area from multiple locations is the best way of seeing Poljska eja. Other species that can be readily encountered include Livadska trepteljka, Crnoglava travarka and Barska strnadica. Zlatni vivak can be seen in the winter months and during the spring migration period, while Obična kukavica and Obična beloguza can be seen in the spring and summer months.
There are other routes that pass through the nearby woodlands and by the River Barrow. Vodenkos has been seen on the river while Krstokljun, Veliki detlić and Kratkokljuni puzić can be found in the woodlands. Mali soko also breed on the Slieve Blooms and there is potential for the species to be spotted on the ridge. The area in general is under-birded and there is potential for much more to be discovered!
Details
Access
The Ridge of Cappard is part of the Slieve Blooms Mountain range and located about 12 km west of the town of Mountmellick. There is a car park at the trailhead. Press P on the map for directions to the car park.
Terrain and Habitat
Forest , Scattered trees and bushes , Mountain , Moors/heathlandConditions
Mountainous , Open landscapeCircular trail
YesIs a telescope useful?
NoGood birding season
SummerBest time to visit
SpringRoute
Narrow trail , Wide pathDifficulty walking trail
Average walkAccessible by
Foot , Car , BicycleBirdwatching hide / platform
NoExtra info
It is best to visit early in the morning to see the most species or when it is quiet as the trails and boardwalk here are popular with walkers and hikers. As with all upland areas, check the weather beforehand and do not venture on the trails when there is heavy fog or the weather is unsuitable. Please also stick to the boardwalk and trails to help protect the sensitive habitats and species found here.