Press Release

Set your alarm to catch the Dawn Chorus

Wednesday, 16 April 2008

It will be an early start for many on 4th May this year, as it is International Dawn Chorus Day, and Derry City Council has organised an event to give people the chance to hear and learn about the morning songs of the birds of the area.

People across the city are invited to meet at Da Vinci’s Hotel in Derry at 6.00am on Sunday 4th May, to go on a guided walk of the Bay Road Park, to listen to the dawn chorus and learn about the birds and other wildlife that live in the park. Participants are then invited to return to the hotel for a warm breakfast.

Annie Mullan, Biodiversity Officer with Derry City Council said, “International Dawn Chorus Day is the worldwide celebration of nature’s miracle. All around the world people will be jumping out of bed early to greet the rising sun and enjoy the dawn chorus of the birds in their area, and that is what we hope the people of Derry will be doing too. The Bay Road Park event is perfect for families, nature enthusiasts and anyone looking to do something a little bit different! I’m sure all those who take part will have a fun time and learn something new”.

The event is being organised as part of the city’s BBC Breathing Places Year of Action, an initiative to create and improve areas of lands for people and wildlife. Environment and Heritage Service has funded this event through their Natural Heritage Grant programme.

Bay Road Park is an undiscovered haven of wildlife for many. It is situated on the shores of the River Foyle, just south of the Foyle Bridge. The woodland and meadows in the park are home to lots of small birds and the park overlooks mudflats known as Madam’s Banks. A wide range of wading birds such as redshank and oystercatchers visits these mudflats, as well as a playful seal that can often be spotted in the river. The event will be an opportunity to explore the park as well as learn about bird song.

Everyone is invited to take part, so set the alarm early and make sure you don’t sleep in on this exciting event!

Booking essential. To book on the Dawn Chorus at Bay Road Park contact Annie Mullan, Biodiversity Officer, Derry City Council, 028 71365151 email: annie.mullan@derrycity.gov.uk

ENDS

For further information contact Marketing and Communications Section, Derry City Council. Telephone 128 7137 6504

For additional information contact:

Press Office

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