It’s for the birds! Waterford’s newest bird hide was officially opened by the Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr Joe Kelly.
Located at Tramore Nature Park overlooking Tramore back strand, the project was funded by Waterford City and County Council, under the Outdoor Recreation Infrastructure Scheme in partnership with Tramore Eco Group, with financial support from Tramore Tidy Towns.
Picture: Patrick Browne
It’s for the birds!
The location of the bird hide is of particular significance as Tramore’s back strand is an important habitat for a variety of birds, in particular little egrets, oystercatchers, herons, snipes and sanderlings.
With stunning views of the back strand, the bird hide provides shelter for birdwatchers and also houses a bird identification board, displaying over thirty bird species that frequent the area. This is particularly useful for school groups and anyone wishing to identify the various birds that they might see in the area.
Picture: Patrick Browne
Mayor of Waterford City and County Cllr Joe Kelly commended the collaborative work of Waterford City and County Council, Tramore Eco Group and Tramore Tidy Towns. “These groups have worked towards the common goal of getting this fantastic facility over the line.”
“Not only is the bird hide a wonderful addition to the landscape of Tramore, it is ergonomically designed and complements its surroundings. I’m confident that it will be a big draw to birdwatchers from not just Waterford, but from all over the country.”
The outer wall is constructed from stone gabions with a sedum grass and wild flower roof that blends in well with its surrounds, helps extend the roof life and also has ecological and environmental benefits.
The bird hide was designed by Waterford firm Bryan McCarthy & Associates, constructed by Liam Whelan Plant Hire Ltd., and Jim Wilson of Wildlife Ireland designed the Bird Identification sign.
