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Swords
is a large estuary that holds important numbers of waders and wildfowl in
winter. It is also an excellent location for watching migrating waders in
autumn. From Dublin,
take the M1 north and take
the exit signposted Skerries, Donabate and Rush. At the roundabout go
left, following signs for Swords. Continue south on the N1 and take a left
turn at Estuary Roundabout. To view the south side of the estuary follow
this road for 300m and then take a right turn at Estuary Rd., continuing
under the M1 bridge. At the small roundabout, continue straight and park
close to the ‘ Dog Kennels’ on the right. Parking in this area is very
restricted so it is sometimes better to continue further on and park at
the first lay-by. The mudflats along this area are superb for waders and
most birds are quite approachable. To view the north side of the estuary,
do not take the right at Estuary Road but continue over small bridge and
follow road right again going under the M1 bridge. The tidal estuary can
be checked on the right side near where people feed the swans. The open
water can be viewed at the end of this road near the slipway.
Birds
found at
Swords
From
autumn, into winter and early spring, Swords is particularly good for
seeing Brent Geese, Pochard,
Goldeneye, Red-breasted Merganser and Great Crested Grebe. Waders here
during this period include Golden Plover Lapwing, Knot, Dunlin,
Black-tailed Godwit and Curlew. In autumn it is also good for seeing
Little Stint, Curlew Sandpiper and Ruff while in summer it holds a small
resident flock of Black-tailed Godwits. Tree Sparrows are often found near
the area where swans are fed while Kingfishers breed on the river just
inland from here. |
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