The lakes, rivers, and wetlands of Kerry provide ideal habitats for a variety of ducks, geese, and swans. Lough Leane in Killarney National Park is a great location to spot whooper swans, tufted ducks, pochards, and little grebes. The nearby marshes and estuaries, such as Castlemaine Harbour and Kenmare Bay, attract wintering species like Brent geese, wigeons, and teals. These areas are particularly important during migration seasons, as birds stop here to rest and refuel on their long journeys.
The mountains and forests of Kerry offer excellent opportunities to see birds of prey and woodland species. Killarney National Park is a stronghold for woodland birds such as great spotted woodpeckers, redstarts, and treecreepers. The park is also home to the white-tailed sea eagle, a magnificent bird of prey that was successfully reintroduced to Ireland. The rugged peaks of the MacGillycuddy’s Reeks and Brandon Mountain are good locations to see peregrine falcons, kestrels, merlins, and ravens soaring overhead.
Bird Watching Activities Kerry
Birdwatching in Kerry
County Kerry is a paradise for birdwatchers, offering a diverse range of habitats that attract both resident and migratory bird species. From rugged coastal cliffs and offshore islands to mountains, lakes, and bogland, the county provides a variety of environments where bird enthusiasts can observe some of Ireland’s most spectacular avian life.
Kerry’s coastline and islands, including the Blasket Islands, Skellig Michael, and the Maharees, are home to some of Ireland’s most important seabird colonies. Puffins, gannets, razorbills, guillemots, and fulmars nest on these remote cliffs, particularly during the breeding season from April to July. Skellig Michael, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is especially famous for its large puffin population, while nearby Little Skellig supports one of the largest gannet colonies in Europe. Along the beaches and estuaries, wading birds such as oystercatchers, curlews, sanderlings, and redshanks can be seen foraging along the shore.
With its breathtaking landscapes and rich birdlife, Kerry offers an unforgettable birdwatching experience. Whether spotting puffins on the Skelligs, eagles over the lakes, or waders along the shoreline, the county is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and bird enthusiasts alike.
The Sneem Swifts Conservation Project is a local initiative dedicated to protecting and enhancing the population of swifts in the picturesque village of Sneem, County Kerry. Swifts, known for their incredible aerial abilities and long migratory journeys, are a vital part of Ireland’s biodiversity but have faced significant declines due to habitat loss.
Recognising the importance of preserving these remarkable birds, the Sneem Swifts Conservation Project focuses on nest site protection, awareness campaigns, and habitat enhancement. Swifts traditionally nest in old buildings and under eaves, but modern renovations and a loss of suitable spaces have made it harder for them to find safe nesting sites. To counter this, the project has worked with local residents and businesses to install specially designed swift nest boxes and encourage the protection of existing nesting areas.
Education and community involvement are key aspects of the project. Volunteers conduct swift surveys, monitoring population numbers and tracking their arrival each spring after their long migration from Africa. Local schools and community groups are also engaged through talks and workshops, fostering an appreciation for these fascinating birds and inspiring conservation efforts at all levels.
The Sneem Swifts Conservation Project is part of a broader national effort to reverse swift population declines and ensure that these iconic summer visitors continue to thrive along the Kerry coastline for generations to come. Through collaboration, awareness, and habitat restoration, the initiative is making a real difference in securing a future for swifts in Sneem.
Whether you're an avid birdwatcher, a conservation enthusiast, or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of nature, Sneem is the perfect base for your Kerry wildlife adventure. Nestled between mountains and sea, Sneem Hotel offers comfortable accommodation with stunning views, just a stone’s throw from some of Ireland’s richest birdwatching habitats. With the added opportunity to witness the incredible work of the Sneem Swifts Conservation Project up close, a stay at Sneem Hotel is more than just a getaway-it’s a chance to connect with nature at its most breathtaking. Book your stay today and experience the wonder of Kerry’s wild side for yourself.
