CAPE CLEAR BIRD OBSERVATORY
The Observatory moved into Harbour House, above, in 1962 and has stayed in this beautiful location ever since. As can be seen from the photograph, we do not look out onto high cliffs or over the ocean, but we are situated in North Harbour, the busy social centre of the island. It is only a two minute walk from the ferry berth, the island shop and pubs and is almost centrally positioned on the island.
Our main aim is to maintain a daily log, which has been called every day during the season since 1959! Cape has always been famous for it's passing seabirds, although in recent years the numbers appear to be decreasing and we are continuing to monitor the daily passage. There are many opportunities during the season to witness thousands of shearwaters, auks and skuas passing the southern tip of Cape with an added possibility of seeing Minke, Fin or Humpback Whales. We have amassed a brilliant species total of 302 so far in our 49 years! Our Birdlist page gives the list, along with the Irish names, with photographs where these are available. If you would like to have one of your shots on the website then please contact us!
We carry out a ringing program and welcome visiting ringers to the Observatory. All equipment and rings are supplied, all you need to bring is your Permit! See our Ringing page for more details.
In recent years we have restarted our Wildlife Courses, running a variety of events ranging from Beginners Birding to Seabirds and Migration. These have proved to be very popular and tend to book out early. Check our Wildlfe Courses page!
We have changed our logo this year, replacing the two Great Shearwaters by Killan Mullarney with a new design by Mick O'Clery using an Anthony McGeehan photo showing a single Great Shearwater soaring over a symbolised seascape. White T-shirts and grey Sweatshirts are available from the BWI Shop at http://shop.birdwatchireland.ie
The two are shown below for comparison!
There are plenty of places to stay on Cape and while the Observatory is obviously the best, we have included a list of alternative accommodation. Just click on the links for either the Observatory or other Accommodation for more details.
We have also included a page showing general information about the island, such as ferry and shop details.
Finally, we are now in our 50th year and we are planning an anniversary week - or two! - in August to celebrate the event. There will be slideshows, guided walks, ringing demonstrations, etc. Keep an eye on the 50th Anniversary page for details.
