Egyptian vulture : Are you lost, mate?
The vultures are here! No, not the local politicians. There’s been a sighting of an Egyptian vulture in South Roscommon by National Parks and Wildlife Services staff.
This handsome fella was initially observed on the morning of New Year’s Eve by the National Parks and Wildlife Services warden for Lough Rea and the Mid-Shannon Callows in the area, Owen Murphy. Murphy picked up on the unusual flight pattern of the bird and upon closer examination, identified him as an Egyptian vulture.
The first recorded sighting of an Egyptian vulture took place in the north of the country over the summer. However, it cannot be determined if this is the same vulture. This adult Egyptian vulture appears to be alone. The reason for the vulture’s arrival to Irish shores from his native habitat is unclear.
The guest vulture has made a stir in Irish birdwatching circles. A number of people are travelling from many parts of Ireland to see it and many more arranging to travel.
Egyptian vulture: Location, Location, Location
The Lough Ree area is rated as the most important site for Breeding Waterbirds. This is according to a report published for the National Parks and Wildlife Service. The Shannon Callows is also rated highly. The area has large numbers of red-listed species with ‘rarities’ popping up on occasion.
The National Parks and Wildlife Service are keen to stress that the vulture does not pose a threat to the public or to livestock.
These pics were taken by Conor Henry, a student from Munster Technological University, who was on the scene on New Year’s Eve.
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