Join the dawn chorus at Carnfunnock park

If you haven’t dragged yourself out of bed at dawn at this time of year to immerse yourself in nature, you won’t know the reward that our birdlife gives with an early morning melody-the dawn chorus.
By The Newsroom
Published 19th Apr 2013, 07:00 BST
Whitethroat Sylvia communis, singing from a bramble bush, Cleveland, MayWhitethroat Sylvia communis, singing from a bramble bush, Cleveland, May
Whitethroat Sylvia communis, singing from a bramble bush, Cleveland, May

Join RSPB Larne Local Group, on May 6, at Carnfunnock Country Park and let them guide you through this feathered orchestra.

The RSPB says that “although there is no fixed order in which each species takes its cue from the eastern sky, there is a genuine tendency for some to start earlier than others.”

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“Worm eaters such as blackbirds and thrushes can forage at low light and find worms which are closer to the surface at this time. Insect eaters such as blackcaps and wrens are next to start; their large eyes are sensitive to available light and can find and chase darting insects and spiders,” a spokesperson explained.

“Last to arrive are the seed eaters such as chaffinches and goldfinches who need better light precision is required to extract seeds.

“Male birds sing during spring to claim territory-advertising to females that they have ’property’ and warning other males away. Some suggest that the dawn chorus is also a way for birds to keep track of numbers and identify whether individuals are in the area; a sort of population check.

“Early morning allows for a sharper sound that can travel further in the cold damp air so the music produced is loud and clear. Yes, it is an early start but the reward of hearing the beauty of nature’s symphony is certainly worth it.”

Contact Carnfunnock Country Park 02828270541 for more information and to reserve a place.