"From troubles of the world I turn
To ducks, beautiful comical things"

Thus a poet of old found solace. And still today these acrobats of the skies who 'neither sow nor reap' have a balmy effect on mankind's soul. Their show is free and their drama will at times leave you breathless. In this pressurised day and age when all you want to get away from it all, what better way than to witness the swooning seagull on the cliff edge or the regal swan gliding gracefully by the river bank.

Bravely impending the Atlantic's conatant surging, the West Clare coastline annually plays host to a myriad of bird species. The awe inspiring ocean front gives
witness to many birds of passage on their way from the Arctic Zone to the warmer climes of the South and on their return trip.

The extensive inter - tidal mudflats of the area provide important winter grounds for wildfowl and waders. Some of the bogs in West Clare lay claim to flocks of overwintering Greenland White-fronted Geese.

So if you're wondering how to spend a day, or perhaps an evening, why not invest in a good pair of binoculars and head off to one of many prime sites all over West Clare. You'll find it an educational if not enthralling way to spend a few hours.

Whether it's the homely robin chirping in the back garden or the migratory duck or goose on wing that inspires you, then I trust you'll not be disappointed in West Clare.

Happy Bird-Watching!