The weather was much kinder than in previous days, and the outing to Killala Bay gave us good views of many species. 

We met at the pier when the tide was beginning to recede, giving us views of the movement of birds across the bay.   Light Bellied Brent Geese swam in shallow water, whilst Oystercatchers slept on the rocks surrounded by Redshank and Curlew. 

In the main channel a Black Guillemot showing its’ winter plumage kept us guessing, along with Great Northern Divers and Red Breasted Mergansers. Common and Black Headed Gulls circled.   On the beach Cormorants stood to attention, Wigeon and Teal swam nearby.  

Arriving at the mudflats before the strand, we gained two more Little Egrets, giving us three seen on the day.  Lapwing stood on the mudflats and Redshank and Curlew fed nearby.

Moving on to the beach, we again saw Oystercatchers, Brent Geese along with a solitary, sad looking Turnstone.  A pair of Red Breasted Mergansers gave us good views with both Bar Tailed and a single Black Tailed Godwit across towards the islands. 

As we viewed the area, the geese and waders became disturbed; a Peregrine Falcon hotly pursued by Meadow Pipits and Pied Wagtails scooted across the area out of view. 

 
Looking across to Enniscrone we occasionally saw a group of black ducks bobbing in the waves, identified as probably Common Scoter.  Along with Cormorant and Divers, a Seal also enjoyed the waves as it kept a close eye on us.  A Shag was also spotted as it dived for food.

One final look back at the pier before we left the area.  With the tide now further out the geese could be seen walking across the mud, each one checked by us but no rings to be seen.  Two of the Little Egrets were seen again, along with better views of Greenshank.  A pair of brightly coloured Shelduck showed their colours well as the fading sun finally shone through.  With a total of 26 species (including the seal) we decided it was time for tea!