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Cape Clear Bird Observatory
Hidden gem
Family friendly
Rainy days
Cape Clear Island in County Cork is 5km long by 2km wide with sparkling harbours, cliffs, bogs and lakes. The Observatory allows for great bird watching. Hostel type accommodation is available on the island for bird watchers and nature enthusiasts.

Cape Clear Bird Observatory in County Cork was first established in 1959 and has continued to support a resident bird warden on Cape Clear Island and to compile year on year detailed records on bird migration, species change and the various rare birds which frequently appear.

Before the establishment of the Observatory little was known of the staggering numbers of shearwaters which regularly pass by in their thousands. Since then many ornithologists have been scanning the seas and being rewarded not only by the astonishing numbers of seabirds but frequent sightings of whales, dolphins, basking sharks, sunfish and, in one memorable year, over 100 sightings of massive leatherback turtles.

The Observatory has also provided formal training courses for aspiring ornithologists. ‘Informal’ training is also provided by the companionship and patience of the ‘old timers’ who give generously of their time and energy to any and all who express an interest.

Tips from locals

Brush up on your Irish, on West Cork's only Gaeltacht island.

Contact details
Cape Clear Island,Skibbereen,Co Cork,Republic of Ireland
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