EVENTS
PROGRAMME MARCH TO JULY 2013
EVENTS
PROGRAMME March 2013
Report
and photos March
2nd 2013_Bryophyte Microscope Techniques_Mosses
& Liverworts
EVENTS
PROGRAMME April 2013
EVENTS
PROGRAMME May 2013
Federation
of Irish Field Clubs Field Trip to Co Fermanagh and locality, SATURDAY
31 May to 3rd June 2013
EVENTS
PROGRAMME June 2013
EVENTS
PROGRAMME July 2013
...
SATURDAY 6th APRIL 2013 PRAEGER CENTRE, NBG
General discussion lead by members, also Slugs and other Invertebrates
Our previous attempts to tackle slugs have been twarthed by lack of material. Despite the daily devastation these pests cause to fruit, garden vegetables and decorative plants, their ability to quickly ‘dive for cover’ in cold, hot, dry, or frosty weather makes it difficult to ensure that fresh material is available, and preserved specimens are unsatisfactory and difficult to work with for people more used to field material. There is no guarantee that this session will be in ideal conditions either, so if slugs are scarce, we will take a close-up look at whatever other creatures we have on the day, i.e. we will go straight into the member-lead second part of the agenda.
Bring: Lunch, (or Lunch in the gardens’ restaurant). A x8 or x10 Hand-lens is a big help to see features on most invertebrates and plants, and is essential for some groups.
Members are reminded that these sessions are intended to be a ‘club’ activity in every sense, so sharing all members’ knowledge and experience is an important element. Members are requested to bring photographs or specimens that they would like to demonstrate to other members, or discuss with more experienced naturalists. The material you bring does not have to be anything to do with the group or ‘target species’ of the session.
Leaders: Gerry Sharkey and other DNFC members
...
SATURDAY 13th APRIL 2013 DONABATE, THE ISLAND SANDSPLIT
Sand dune Flora
We will walk along the split to see early sand dune flora. Among the species we hope to see are: Hairy Violet (Viola hirta), Early Forget-me-not (Myosotis ramosissima), and Spring Vetch (Vicia lathyroides).
Leader: Con Breen / David Nash
Bring: Wellies, Warm Clothes, Identification Guides and a Hand-lens.
Report
and photos April 13th
2013
...
SATURDAY 20th APRIL 2013 ULSTER MUSEUM, BELFAST
Irish Field Clubs: Past present and Future
Declan Doogue (The Dublin Naturalists' Field Club) - If we don't do it, who will?
Diarmuid Finnegan: (Queen's University of Belfast) - The Field Club Revolution: a brief history
David Allen (Author of the classic The Naturalist in Britain) - A.G. More and his circle
Michael
Longley - Rambling with Raymond, memories of a botanical friendship with
Raymond Piper
Raymond Piper
Portrait
of Michael Longley (b.1939), Poet, Editor and Anthologist by Colin Davidson,
can be seen in National Gallery of Ireland,
Merrion Square
West, Dublin 2
Ken
James - Ireland's Eye, photographer R.J. Welch (1859–1936) 
Short presentations from participating clubs.
Discussion forum on different approaches to field studies, ways to encourage cooperation among Field Cubs to share our accumulated knowledge and expertise and to initiate joint field projects.
If you hope to attend, please email secretary@bnfc.org before 1 March 2013.
SATURDAY 27th APRIL 2013 TURVEY NATURE RESERVE
Biodiversity
Turvey Nature Reserve is an area of land on the southern shore of Rogerstown Estuary including the site of the old Allotments and the old Rogerstown Bird Hide. This outing, led by Fingal’s Biodiversity Officer, will consider the management strategy for the Reserve, and provide the opportunity of seeing a number of native Irish cattle breeds.
Leader: Hans Visser
Bring: Binoculars, Spotting Scopes, Warm Clothes, Gloves, and Lunch.
...
Events
EVENTS
PROGRAMME May &
early june 2013
...
SATURDAY 4th May 2013 PRAEGER CENTRE, NBGs
An Introduction to Ground Beetle Identification
Nessa
will describe how to identify the Carabidae,
an attractive, useful and manageable group of beetles. It will be a chance to
share and discuss knowledge on their distribution and ecology. Specimens from
Turvey Park and mainland Europe will be available for examination. Attendees are
encouraged to bring specimens for identification - alive or dead, or just to
show them off!
Lunch
Irish “Bird Books” and their Authors
In this session, Pat will review and display the major books published on Irish birds from 1849 to the early 1980s. In addition, the life and work of some of the authors, such as Thompson, Barrington, Ussher and Ruttledge, will be discussed.
Leaders: Nessa Darcy and Pat Lenihan.
Bring: Hand lens, specimens (see above), identification books and lunch, or have lunch in the Gardens’ restaurant.
......
SATURDAY 11th MAY 2013 WAR MEMORIAL PARK, ISLANDBRIDGE
Flora and Fauna
Our National War Memorial Park has at last emerged from the shadows after the splendid pageantry surrounding the recent Royal visit, and is now perhaps better known to Dubliners. We will examine the flora and fauna of the Park and the adjacent banks of the River Liffey in a walk from the Memorial Park at Islandbridge towards Chapelizod.
Leaders: Pat Kearney, Gerry Sharkey and Pat Lenihan.
By
Car:
Heading west on Conyngham Road, turn left onto South Circular Road at
Islandbridge.
Immediately over the Liffey bridge watch out for a small brown road sign on
the right-hand side.
Follow this sign towards and through large gates. Turn immediately right for the
road to the car-park.
By
Bus:
Routes 68 and 69 from Aston Quay to SCR, Islandbridge, or routes 25, 26, 66 and
67 from Pearse St. to
Conyngham Road.
Bring: Walking boots, binoculars, hand lens, and lunch.
......
SATURDAY 18th MAY 2013 TURVEY NATURE RESERVE
“Bugs and Beetles” I
We hope to collect and identify Shieldbugs, Ladybirds, Grasshoppers, Harvestmen and Spiders. Please bring photographs or live specimens for identification. Shieldbugs and Ladybirds, for example, can be kept safely in a plastic box in a fridge for a few days with a couple of leaves and a slightly damp tissue. You are also very welcome to contribute to the outing and to further work on the distribution of a particular group of your choice in County Dublin.
Leaders: Dorothy Lyle, Deirdre Hardiman, Declan Doogue, and David Nash.
Directions: From the M1 heading north take Exit 4. At the double roundabout, follow signs for the R132. Continue along the R132 and go straight through the first roundabout. At the second roundabout, opposite the prominent Great Gas filling station, take the right exit L2136 (R126) to Donabate. After 1 km you will see a large concealed entrance gateway on your left. This entrance leads to the car park.
Bring: Keys or identification books, hand lens and lunch.
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SUNDAY 19th MAY 2013 JUNIOR MEMBERS’ OUTING, NEWCASTLE
Pond Dipping and Fen Beast Hunting in the East Coast Reserve
The reserve is located in the Murrough Wetlands, which consist of a wide range of coastal and freshwater habitats, stretching from Kilcoole to Wicklow. The visit is aimed at our younger members accompanied by an adult, but adults are also very welcome. The visit will be hands on, with pond dipping and mini-bug hunting for fen creatures.
Leader: Catherine Dempsey.
Diirections:
By Bus: Take number 84 to Newcastle from Corn Exchange Place in Dublin. Alight in Newcastle, near the Castle Inn, where the bus terminates. Take the road (Sea Road) opposite the bus stop signposted to the beach. The reserve is about one mile away on the south side of this road.
By Car: Leave the N11 at the Kilcoole/Greystones exit, which is just to the south of the R762 turning to Delgany, and follow the signs to Kilcoole. Drive through Kilcoole to Newcastle. Turn left after the Castle Inn and bridge, and follow the road down to the coast where parking is available.
Bring: Wellies, warm and waterproof clothing, identification books, pencil, clipboard and snacks.
Note: ALL CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT AND NO DOGS ALLOWED.
......
SATURDAY 25th MAY 2013 HOWTH
Geology, Soils and Flora
We will visit some interesting areas around the Howth Peninsula to examine the relationship between vegetation, soils and the underlying bedrock. The areas will include; Sutton – Claremont beach and Bottle Quay; the Summit of Howth; and possibly other areas depending on weather and time.
Leaders: Declan Doogue and Peter Coxon.
Directions: From Dublin take the Clontarf road along the coast; go past Bull Island and at Sutton Cross bear right onto Greenfield Road. St. Fintan’s Church is on the left hand side about 500m further on. Park in front of the church.
Bring: Boots, rain wear, hand lenses and lunch.
......
SATURDAY
31 May to 3rd June 2013
DERRYGONNELLY
Federation of Irish Field Clubs Field Trip to Co Fermanagh and locality
In the late 19th century, R.L. Praeger established an Irish Field Club Union which met between 1895 and 1910. One hundred years later, following the decision to reinstate a Federation of Irish Field Clubs, the Inaugural Field Meeting will be held in County Fermanagh to which members of all Irish Field Clubs and similar organisations are invited to attend.
Derrygonnelly Field Studies Centre, Co. Fermanagh, in Derrygonnelly village which is about 10 miles west of Enniskillen, Co. Fermanagh, will be used as a base for the weekend.
Friday 31st May. There will be an evening meal, an informal get-together, an opportunity to view exhibitions, and moth-traps will be set-up.
Saturday 1st, Sunday 2nd and Monday 3rd June. There will be field trips to the following locations: Marble Arch and Cuilcagh Geopark; Correl Glen; Monawilkin National Nature Reserve; Lough Navar Forest Park; and Devenish Island Monastic Site
......
Friday 31st May evening
Evening meal, informal get-together, exhibitions, Moth-traps set-up.
......
Saturday 1st June - Moth-traps opening
Whole day visit to Marble Arch and Cuilcagh Geopark. This Global and European UNESCO Geopark covers parts of Counties Fermanagh and Cavan. The Nature Reserves at Killykeeghan and Crossmurrin are the best examples of limestone karst areas in Northern Ireland and the Burren area of County Cavan is noted botanically and archaeologically. We will tour, partly by boat, the extensive Marble Arch caves, one of Europe's finest show caves.
Evening lecture on the archaeology and history of the area by Claire Foley (NIEA)
......
Sunday 2nd June
Visit to Correl Glen, opposite the entrance to Lough Navar Forest Park, led by Robert Northridge, co-author of the recently published The Flora of County Fermanagh, and Monawilkin National Nature Reserve. Correl Glen is noted for ferns, including filmy ferns, Equisetum hyemale and Monotropa hypopitys. Monawilkin has many dragonflies, butterflies and nesting curlews and meadow pipits.
Picnic lunch and visit to Lough Navar Forest Park for more botany, zoology, geology and scenic views.
In the evening, a Mini-conversazione – members share their discoveries, pictures and ideas about the weekend.
......
Monday 3rd June
Boat trip from Enniskillen to Devenish Island Monastic Site on Lower Lough Erne, led by Claire Foley.
Devenish is one of the most important Early Christian sites in Ulster, founded by St.Molaise in the 6th century; it has a Round Tower, old churches and monastic buildings.
Members to book with Mrs Joan Semple, excursion@bnfc.org.uk
Details and booking form being issued with DNFC AGM notice.
SATURDAY 8th JUNE 2013 GLENMALURE VALLEY
How to Grow a Forest: Restoring Native Woodland on Conifer Clearfell
We will visit sites in Glenmalure Valley where there is an experiment in native woodland restoration on conifer clearfell. Different management techniques will be seen, such as the use of fencing to exclude herbivores. We will see the vegetation that is present 10 years after its restoration and its significance for the future plant community
Leaders: Karen Moore.
Directions: At Laragh turn left at Lynham’s pub (R755). After 1 km turn right for Glenmalure (L2083). After about 8 km, at the cross-roads at the bottom of a hill (signposted left for Glenmalure Lodge), turn right and drive alongside the Avonbeg River to the car park at the end of this road.
Bring: Lunch and walking boots, identification books for plants and/or bryophytes, and a hand lens.
Note: In the afternoon we may explore this beautiful valley in more general terms including its geology, rare bryophytes and human history.
......
SATURDAY 15th JUNE 2013 KILLINEY BEACH
A Geological Walk
All
the major rock types make an appearance along this short stretch of coastline.
We will look at the glacial cliffs near Killiney Station before making our way
back along the beach towards the granite intrusion at White Rock where igneous
and metamorphic rocks are on display. Along the way, we will see how modern
processes are operating and shaping the geological formations.
Leader:
Kieran Craven.
Bring: Strong footwear, warm clothes, lunch, and a hand lens.
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SATURDAY 22nd JUNE 2013 GLENDALOUGH
Ferns for Beginners
This
is an opportunity to “get to grips” with ferns. Glendalough has a great
variety of them making it easy to compare and contrast different species.
Leader:
Catriona Brady.
Bring: Lunch, walking shoes, and hand lens.
......
SATURDAY 29th JUNE 2013 CORKAGH PARK
Nature Walk
We will take a gentle walk through Corkagh Park, on the flood plain of the Camac river, and will look at the trees of the Famine Arboretum as well as the native and exotic trees of the old estate. Snippets of the abundant local history of this South Dublin County Council Park will also be mentioned. A small rose garden, wetland area, and pet farm are added attractions.
Leader: Fridolin Kerr.
Directions: By Car: From Dublin on the N7 take a right turn at Newlands Cross onto the Fonthill road. Drive through 3 sets of traffic lights (Bewleys Hotel and a Topaz garage will be on your left) and turn left after the 3rd set of lights (pedestrian). The entrance to Corkagh Park is at a small roundabout at the end of this small road.
By Bus: Number 13 from Dame Street will take you to the Fonthill Road. It is a 10 – 15 minute walk from the bus stop to the car park.
Bring:
Wet
weather clothing.
...
......
SATURDAY 6th JULY 2013 PRAEGER CENTRE, NBG
An Introduction to the Identification of Plants
Richard will give an introduction to the identification of ‘wild’ flowering plants. The initial part of the workshop will elucidate features and terms needed for the ID of plants and how to recognise some plant families. You will have the opportunity to learn how to use a plant key – not a difficult task when you have a basic understanding of the above.
Plants will be supplied, but please bring along samples for ID, preferably fresh whole plants including any basal leaves. (You need a licence to collect protected species).
Lunch
The Use of Databases for Storing Records
The afternoon session will be flexible with the plant identification workshop continuing for a period.
If
there is demand, David will give a short session on the use of databases for
storing biological records with an introduction to MapMate.
If you already have MapMate installed on your laptop and want some assistance
please bring it along.
Leaders: Richard McMullen and David Nash.
Bring: Hand lens, or you can purchase one at the event, specimens (see above), identification books and lunch, or have lunch in the Gardens’ restaurant.
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SATURDAY 13th JULY 2013 EDENDERRY
Bryophytes: A JOINT DNFC/BRITISH BRYOLOGICAL SOCIETY (DUBLIN GROUP) OUTING
We will be looking at mosses and liverworts along the Grand Canal, which will provide a range of aquatic, man-made and scrub habitats. It may be possible to access cutover raised bog from the canal walk. If the flora proves to be dull, we might move to another bog or to woodland habitats nearby.
Leaders: George Smith and Joanne Denyer.
Directions: Take the M4 motorway towards Galway. Leave the motorway at Exit 9 (Enfield), signposted for Edenderry. At the roundabout, take the 2nd exit (sign posted Edenderry) on to the R402. Stay on this road until you reach Edenderry, but make sure you make the right turn after Carbury rather than taking the R403 towards Prosperous & Naas. Once in Edenderry, follow the road around to the right, and the square will be on your right.
Bring: Wellies, warm clothes, rain gear, hand lenses, ID books and lunch.
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SUNDAY 21st JULY 2013 DONABATE/PORTRANE
Bugs and Beetles II (See Bugs and Beetles I, 18th May 2013, for details).
Leaders: Dorothy Lyle, Deirdre Hardiman, Declan Doogue and David Nash
Bring: Keys or identification books, hand lens and lunch.
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SUNDAY 21st JULY 2013 JUNIOR MEMBERS’ OUTING, SANDYCOVE
Rockpool Outing
This “Rockpool Outing” is especially for younger members but adults not accompanied by a child are also very welcome. The rockpools are situated along a stretch of coast which provides both sheltered and exposed habitats teeming with life.
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
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SUNDAY 28th JULY 2013 ABBEYLEIX BOG
Raised Bog Habitats
Abbeyleix Bog south of the town was traversed by the Portlaoise-Kilkenny railway until 1962. The bog was acquired by Bord na Móna, but development did not proceed beyond initial drainage. In an effort to restore the habitat to an ‘active raised bog’, some 3,500 peat dams were inserted in 2009 to raise the water level in the internal drains.
This outing will offer members an opportunity to test their Sphagnum identification skills in the field. We will be examining the following habitats: degraded raised bog under regeneration; hand cutover peatland areas; former railway bed with imported calcareous materials; minerotrophic and ombrotrophic wet woodland. The central rail-bed gives easy access to the middle of the bog, but the bog surface will be WET!
Leaders: Charles Shier & Katharine Duff.
By Car: From Dublin take the N7/M7, exit at Junction 17 and take the N77 for Abbeyleix.
Bring: Floras, lunch, wellingtons, or waterproof hiking boots.
...
SATURDAY 2nd MARCH 2013 PRAEGER CENTRE, NBG
Bryophyte Microscope Techniques
We have had many recent outings to look at bryophytes (mosses, liverworts and hornworts) in the field. However, many species cannot be identified without the use of a microscope. In this workshop we will look at techniques to help you use a microscope for bryophyte identification. You don’t need to have any prior experience of bryophytes or micrscopes, so all are welcome!
Leader: Dr Joanne Denyer
Bring:
Microscope:
high power (compound) and/or low power (dissecting), if you have these.
I will bring my microscopes and we can share as required.
Dissecting Equipment (e.g. forceps, mounted needles) and/or Bryophyte Identification Books, if you have any.
Lunch, or have Lunch in the Garden's restaurant.
Report
and photos March
2nd 2013_Bryophyte Microscope Techniques_Mosses
& Liverworts
......
SATURDAY 9th MARCH 2013 JUNIOR MEMBER’S OUTING, LEIXLIP
Scavenger Hunt, St. Catherine’s Park
Please come and join us and see what you can find in St. Catherine's Park this spring on a plant and animal scavenger hunt. This Outing is especially for younger members accompanied by an adult, but adults not accompanied by a child are also very welcome.
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Bring: Wellies, Warm Clothing, Identification Books, Pencil, Clipboard, and a Snack
Note: ALL CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT AND NO DOGS ALLOWED
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SATURDAY 16th MARCH 2013 NORTH BULL ISLAND
Bird Watching
This is an opportunity to see a wide range of waders, ducks, geese, raptors and even some land birds that feed around Bull Island and in the estuarine mud close to the road between Bull Island and St. Anne’s Park, Raheny. The outing will also be used to give participants the chance to improve their wader identification skills.
Leader: Sean Hogan
Bring: Binoculars, Telescopes, Bird Books, Warm Clothes, Gloves, and Lunch.
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SATURDAY 23rd MARCH 2013 LIFFEY VALLEY PALMERSTOWN
Woodland
Flora Cancelled
A walk through woodland along the banks of the River Liffey to Wren's
Nest Weir. The woodland consists of both native and non-native trees with
a well developed ground flora and we hope to find some early woodland plants.
Springs along the side of the valley give rise to interesting tufa deposits.
Please note that it may be quite wet and muddy underfoot.
Access
is by kind permission of The King's Hospital School.
Leader:
Melinda Lyons
Bring: Lunch, and Hiking or Wellington boots.
EVENTS
PROGRAMME
FEBRUARY
2013
SATURDAY 23rd FEBRUARY 2013 ST. CATHERINE’S WOOD, LEIXLIP
Woodland and Grassland Management
St. Catherine’s Demesne has mixed woodland of predominantly native broadleaves that is designated an Area of Scientific Interest. The development of an open canopy within the woodland promotes a diverse herb layer which is a valuable botanical resource.
During the visit the main topic will be the new grassland management systems that have been introduced for the site by the County Council. Grazing is provided by a herd of Highland Cattle.
Leader: Shane Lombard
Bring: Wellies, Warm Clothes, and Lunch.
SATURDAY 16th FEBRUARY 2013 A WALK IN THE DUBLIN HILLS
Flora
This is a lovely walk in the Dublin hills which is not too taxing as there is a track most of the way. From the car park we will head to Tibradden, from there we will follow a well worn track with a gradual incline to Fairy Castle, Two Rock and Three Rock returning via the Wicklow Way.
Given the time of year and habitat we will be limited in what plants we can expect to see. We should see three heathers, Ling (Calluna vulgaris), Bell (Erica cinerea) and Cross leaved (Erica tetralix). Perhaps we will see some Autumn Gorse (Ulex gallii), Crowberry (Empetrum nigrum), Heath bedstraw (Galium saxatile) and the remains of Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia) and Common butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris). We will also see some widespread ferns such as Bracken (Pteridium aquilinum) Hard fern (Blechnum spicant) Hart’s tongue fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) Rusty back fern (Ceterach officinarum) and Polypodium (Polypodium vulgare).
Leader: Rosaleen Fitzgerald
Bring: Strong Shoes or Hiking boots, Warm Clothes, Raingear, Lunch / Hot drink.
SATURDAY 9th FEBRUARY 2013 RIVER SHANNON CALLOWS
Bird Watching
During this time of year, the level of flooding of the Callows is unpredictable but we are hopeful of seeing a wide variety of ducks, geese, waders, and swans. We will also visit a bird hide in the locality to see some White Fronted Geese.
Leader: Brian Caffrey
Bring: Wellies, Binoculars, Warm Clothes, and Lunch.
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Saturday february 2nd, 2013 The Praeger Centre, NBG
Soil and Leaf-litter Invertebrtes
An Introduction to Irish Woodlice
Leaf-litter Invertebrate Identification
Leaders: Declan Doogue
/Buckyballs/2012_08_%2006%20Bucky%20ball_%20prob%20Sawfly%20larva,%20TurveyBucky%20ball_%20prob%20Sawfly%20larva,%20Turvey/DSCN8384b.jpg)
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Report and photos February 2nd 2013_Soil & Leaf litter Invertebrates
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EVENTS
PROGRAMME
January 2013
Saturday January 12th, 2013 The Praeger Centre, NBG
Bog mosses
We will look at some of the main Sphagnum species that are found on Raised Bogs - in the pools, hummocks and hollows and examine the characters that help you recognize them in the field.
We will use the BBS Field Guide to Mosses and Liveworts of Britain and Ireland (2010) to key out some of the species.
Leader: Katharine Duff
Bring: hand lens, and a microscope, if you have one. Lunch, or have lunch in the Garden's restaurant.
Sphagnum cuspidatum © K Duff
Thursday 17th January, 2013 Bird Habitats
Evening Talk: Bird Habitats in Ireland
Time: 8.00 pm
Venue: National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre
Speaker: Richard Nairn
Richard Nairn – writer, and director of Natura Consultants will talk on the subject of his latest book "Bird habitats in Ireland" which was published in 2012. This beautifully illustrated publication, with contributions from 25 skilled authors, describes the importance of our habitats for various bird species in Ireland, including both breeding and wintering species.
...
Sunday 20th January 2013 Wexford Wildfowl Reserve
Birds (Geese,Swans Ducks and other Birdslife) in Wexford Wildfowl Reserve and on the Raven (if we have time).
Leader: Kevin Dooney
Bring binoculars are essential.Bring a Telescope if you have one.
Strictly No Dogs allowed.
If time allows we will visit the Raven Nature reserve in the afternoon for a walk in the Pine afforested Sand Dunes for winter Finches and the chance of Crossbills.
The Wexford Wildfowl Reserve consists of 500 acres of improved farmland and brackish channels which is grazed by wildfowl in Winter.The Reserve can hold up to 10 thousand Greenland White Fronted Geese amongst other Geese,Swans and Duck species.
NOTE
Meetings of The Dublin Naturalists' Field Club are open to Members and their Guests.
If
you wish to join applications should be made to
the Membership Secretary or by completion of the Membership Application Form
and sending to the
Membership Secretary
Fridolin Kerr
31 Cherrywood Park
Clondalkin
Dublin 22
Email: Membership.Secretary
at dnfc
dot net
EVENTS
PROGRAMME November 2012 & December 2012
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Saturday 3rd November 2012 Annual Members’ Day
For details of Members’ day 2012 see separate Invitation
Report and photos November 3rd
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Saturday 17th November 2012 Kilcoole, Co, Wicklow
Bird Watching:- A Walk on The Murrough
During this time of year, there are usually large numbers of waders,ducks, geese,swans and sea birds present.
Leader: Pat Lenihan
By Bus: Kilcoole can be reached by the No 84 bus which departs from Belfield,destination Newcastle,Co Wicklow.The journey takes an hour & 10 minutes.The Railway station is a 20 minute walk from the village.
By Car: From Dublin take N11 & about a mile south of the Glen of the Downs take the slip road to Kilcoole.At the end of the main street in the village at the sunken roundabout turn left towards the railway station.Continue to the Railway gates and turn left into car park.
...
Sunday, 25th November 2012 St. Catherine’s Wood, Leixlip
Woodland Snails and Slugs
Leaders: Gerry Sharkey and Declan Doogue
The dull wet season has been of benefit to snails and slugs – animals that
thrive in shaded moist environments, especially on limestone soils. The woods at
Saint Catherine’s
on the borders of Counties Dublin and Kildare have a well-recorded woodland
flora and are likely to have a number of mollusc species typical of old forest
habitats.The leaf-litter layer here is well developed and there are various wet
areas within the woods associated with the smaller tributaries of the River
Liffey.
The outing will explore the molluscan fauna using conventional hand-searching of
living trees, fallen logs and sorting through leaf litter with garden sieves.
If time and weather permit we will also sample flood debris nearby.
Copies of the 84-page Field Studies Council illustrated guide “Land Snails in the British Isles” by Robert Cameron will be on sale at cost (10 euro each).
This outing is intended to dovetail with the event planned for the Praeger Centre on the following weekend, when some of the smaller material collected on the trip will be examined under the microscope.
Bring lunch, and members should bring hand lenses, identification guides and small collecting tubes. Conventional garden sieves and some brightly-coloured plastic basins or bags will also be found useful.
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Saturday 1st December 2012 Grounds of Royal Hospital, Kilmainham
Winter Landscape: Trees, old walls and their inhabitants
There
is extensive Parkland, 2
Cemeteries and a formal Walled Garden.
In
case of really bad weather, we
can retire to the buildings.
The Cafe and Bookshop will be open and while the Main Galleries are closed for renovation, there will be an exhibition in the new gallery nearby
Leader: Mary Carson
Duration: We plan to be out for about 2 hours, depending on the conditions.
Luas: Take the Red Luas Line to Heuston, turn right along St John's Road West and take first left turn on Military Road to the Main Gate.
If members wish they can collect any snails and slugs encountered and bring them to tomorrow’s Praeger Centre event (yes, on a Sunday) to have them identified. Use a plastic container like a margarine / butter container to hold them, put some absorbent paper in to soak up excess moisture and a slice of apple or carrot to keep them busy.
Report and photos December 1st
..
...
...
Sunday 2nd December 2012 The Praeger Centre, NBG
Land and Freshwater Snails
Leaders: Gerry Sharkey, Declan Doogue and Maria Long
Please note that this event takes place on SUNDAY.
We will be concerned mainly with the identification of land and freshwater snails. Members may wish to bring along gatherings of shell-rich flood debris from riverbanks or lakeshores, where there is often an abundance of material for examination. The morning session will concentrate on land snails and in the afternoon we will work on freshwater material.
Bring
lunch or eat in the Botanic Gardens restaurant.
Copies of Cameron’s guide (see 25th Nov.) will be available for purchase at
€10 (cost).
Report and photos December 2nd
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EVENTS
PROGRAMME August to October 2012
...
SATURDAY
AUGUST 4th
National Botanic Gardens, Praeger Centre
Catching,
preserving and preparing Insects for identification
None
of us actually like killing small creatures, and in general we prefer to
identify them in the field. However for many invertebrate groups it is
impossible to make a positive identification without using a microscope or
preserving the specimen for confirmation by an expert, and more important
captures should be preserved in a museum collection for future workers to see
This
session will demonstrate how to do so while causing least distress to yourself
and your captives.
Bring:
your hand-lens and lunch, (or lunch in the gardens’ restaurant)
If you have any samples or photos of things you would like us to confirm or identify, or records to tell us about, please bring them along or send. photos and records in advance to: company.secretary at dnfc dot net
Report and photos August 4th
Saturday 11th and Sunday 12th August.
Docks
and Willowherbs
Geoffrey Kitchener
The
DNFC special expert guest this year is Geoffrey Kitchener, the BSBI referee for
Epilobium (Willowherbs) and Rumex (Docks).
Geoffrey has made major contributions to the study of Rumex and Epilobium
and his interpretation of Epilobium and its included hybrids forms the basis for
the recent account of that genus in Sell and Murnell’s treatment of that genus
in the standard work on the British and Irish Flora.
Geoffrey
has agreed to lead a number of identification workshops on the Saturday and
Sunday and has also prepared a presentation of his work with these groups.
In addition we will visit a number of sites to see some of the species
and their hybrids in
situ.
Arising out of the visit, we hope to have formed a clearer view of the
range of variation within each species and to be able to recognise some of the
more clear-cut hybrids.
In
order to get the greatest value from this important event, members are invited
to bring along specimens for examination. It is usually easier to deal with
freshly collected material, but well-pressed specimens from either genus are
also welcome.
If
you would like further guidance on collecting or further details of the field
trips, please contact Declan Doogue.
Saturday
11th AUGUST
National Botanic Gardens, Praeger Centre
i)
Epilobium
and Rumex Identification Workshops.
ii)
Lecture
/ Presentation
Sunday
12th August
National Botanic Gardens, Praeger Centre
Epilobium
and Rumex Identification Workshops.
SATURDAY
AUGUST 25th
LOUISA
BRIDGE, LEIXLIP, Co. KILDARE.
Flora
and Hydrogeology
The
vegetation at Louisa Bridge is of particular interest for the range of plant
species, which occur there and for well-developed examples of habitats, which
are becoming increasingly rare due to intensification of land use and changing
agricultural practices.
Springs emerging on the hillside give rise to an intricate mosaic of
wetland habitats while drier parts of the site have species-rich calcareous
grassland.
We will look at the ecological influences and the resulting flora
including orchids, grasses, sedges and mosses.
Leader:
Melinda Lyons
Report and photos August 25th
SUNDAY
AUGUST 26th
Booterstown
Leader: Declan Doogue
...
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 1st
The Praeger Centre, National Botanic
Gardens
Bring
lenses and if possible microscopes,
as the spores of some of the some of the more difficult-to-identify
species possess useful diagnostic features.
Although
the day is built around ferns, members may wish to bring along specimens of
various other group, either
to demonstrate or for identification.
Horsetails
SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 9th.
Turvey Park and environs
An
area of land on the southern shore of Rogerstown Estuary including the site of
the old Allotments and the old Rogerstown Bird Hide are now called Turvey Park.
There has been a lot of work carried out on the park, resulting in disturbed
conditions favourable to insect life.
Leaders:
Dorothy Lyle and Gerry Sharkey
Bring:
nets and hand lens etc for insects and binoculars for birds, also bring whatever
identification aids you like to use
Lunch
and strong footwear
...
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 22nd
Russborough
and Russelstown area
We
intend to walk from the Russborough car park along the reservoir lakeshore to
the old Russelstown quarry and back. It will be a less than challenging walk,
but extra care and strong footwear are advised. There are unstable steep
loose-soil banks and scrub growing in the wet basin. Members are reminded that
neither DNFC nor the owners are liable for members’ personal risk on this
private property.
Long-eared
Owls, and Common Buzzard roost about the quarry, with Newts and bats including
Daubenton’s, The many micro-habitats support a varied invertebrate fauna and
flora.
Leaders:
Colm Ronayne and Gerry Sharkey
Report and photos September 22nd
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 6th
The Praeger Centre, National Botanic Gardens
An
Introduction to Land and Freshwater Molluscs
The
land and freshwater molluscs (land snails, slugs, freshwater snails and
bivalves) form a fascinating group, which will repay further study at a local
level. Different habitats have different species-groupings and very few areas
are devoid of at least some species.
This year has been particularly good for molluscs – especially slugs
– because of the extended periods of wet weather.
However, even in dry seasons the empty shells of the various species can
be found.
The
day is intended to give members an introduction to the group, learning some of
the basic collecting techniques and becoming familiar with the standard works of
identification and distribution.
You are invited to bring along specimens for examination – dead shells
are usually suitable for identification.
Slugs are more easily examined live and should be brought along in
plastic containers.
They can be kept alive in a cool place, feeding them with carrot or
potato slices.
Bring: your
hand-lens and lunch, (or lunch in the gardens’ restaurant)
Land
Snails
Leader:
Maria Long
Slugs
Leader:
Gerry Sharkey
....followed
by
a field trip to the Botanic Gardens ponds.
Report and photos October 6th
...
SATURDAY OCTOBER 13th Rockpools in Howth
Young Members’ Outing
The
Rockpools in Balscadden, Howth contain a fascinating array of small animals.
Last year we found the following: Prawns, Red Beadlet, Anemones, Porcelaine
Crabs, Tube Worms, Chitons, Dog Whelks and their eggs, Hermit Crabs etc.
This
outing is especially for younger members, but adults and children alike have
enjoyed it in previous years and everyone is welcome to come along
NO
DOGS ALLOWED.
Leaders:
Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Bring:
Nets or Sieves, plastic containers, identification books (if you have them),
wellies or old runners that won't be slippery on wet rocks, change of clothes.
SATURDAY
OCTOBER 20th
Cabinteely
Park
Autumnal
Walk
in the 45 acre estate around Cabinteely House which includes mature woodland,
hedgerow and parkland. The Shanagarry River flows through it.
Leaders:
Bob Aldwell and Katy Duff
Bring:
Rain gear
Hand
Lens and I.D books useful but not essential.
Report and photos October 20th
...
..........
EVENTS
PROGRAMME May to July2012
Saturday 12 May 2012 National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Irish Plants on Irish Stamps
10.00am John Lennon, philatelist, will speak about stamps.
11.30am
Members of the DNFC including Katy Duff, Declan Doogue, Pat Lenihan and Gerry
Sharkey will talk
about the species of plants on the stamps, their ecology and distribution.
2.30pm
Illustrated talk by Susan Sex, botanical artist, who created the delicate
watercolours of Irish orchids for
An
Post.
Report and photos May
12th
..........
Saturday 26 May 2012 The Murrough, Wicklow town
Investigation of the plants of the beach and shingle ridge
Leader: Catriona Brady
Report and photos May 26th
...
SATURDAY
JUNE 2nd
The Praeger Centre, National Botanic
Gardens
Biological Recording and allied subjects
Bring: yourselves, your hand-lens and lunch, (or lunch in the gardens’
restaurant)
Session
A Leader:
Declan Doogue
Identifying
and recording Ladybirds
Please
bring along digital photos of ladybirds for identification
Session
B Leader: Colm Ronayne
Solitary
Bees and other insects
..........
SATURDAY JUNE 9th The Grand Canal
Sedges
We
will look at a variety of Sedges on the Grand Canal, in pools and on dry banks.
Emphasis will be on identification of the Sedges from the roots up..
Leader: Con Breen
By
Car:
Take the N4 going westwards towards Lucan. At Exit 4 take the R120 to
Newcastle and Adamstown. Travel 1 Mile (approx) and just before the Maxol
Station (on right side) the Irish Wheelchair Association have a premises. The
IWA have very kindly said that we can use their Car park.
SATURDAY
JUNE 23rd
Howth
Joint Outing with Belfast Naturalists' Field Club
The Howth peninsula is well known as an important area for several nationally important rare species and habitat types. We may sometimes forget the significance of the area, because of its general familiarity and accessibility. However it continues to fascinate botanists in much the same way as it stimulated H.C Hart, the Donegal and Dublin botanist to write the Flora of Howth in 1887 shortly after the foundation of the Dublin Club and some years after the formation of the senior society in Belfast. The DNFC is currently revising Hart's Flora. In the course of the day we will visit a number of sites on the peninsula from saltmarsh to coastal heathland. However the main interest will be centred on the flora and vegetation on the areas adjoining the cliff path. Of particular note are species such as Inula crithmoides, Artemisia maritima, Rubia peregrina, Geranium sanguineum, and Erodium maritimum, all of which have nationally interesting geographical distributions and exhibit significant affiliation to various vegetation communities.
The
morning session will concentrate on coastal sites near Howth village.
In
the afternoon session we will visit a number of sites along the cliff path.
...
SUNDAY
JUNE 24th
Orwell
Bridge, Rathgar
Young
Person’s Meeting
We
have visited the pond in Airfield (in Dundrum) in recent years to look at small
fresh-
water
animals. As Airfield is closed this year (due to reopen in 2013) we are going to
look
at the small fresh water animals that live in a river – the Dodder..
We
might find different kinds of Shrimps, Snails, Insect larvae (in other words
young.
insects),
Beetles, worms, what ever – keep your eyes open!
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Bring: If
possible bring a white plastic box, fishing net or sieve, identification book
for what you might find in fresh water. Wear waterproof clothing-especially
wellies.
Airfield
is currently closed for renovations until 2013
...
The
Dodder River
...
SATURDAY JULY 7th The Praeger Centre, National Botanic Gardens
Biological Recording and allied subjects
See
Secretions for more information
Meet: at the Visitor Centre in the National Botanic Gardens.
Bring: yourselves,
your hand-lens and lunch, (or lunch in the gardens’ restaurant)
Session
A Leader:
Gerry Sharkey
Introduction
to some Hoverfly groups.
Session
B Leader:
Declan Doogue
Identifying
Ferns. Some ferns are easy to identify, others can on occasion be difficult There
will be an exhibit of examples of some commoner ferns and in discussion we will
concentrate on the finer points of identification.
...
Report and photos July 7th
...
..........
...SATURDAY
JULY 14th
Avondale
Forest Park, Rathdrum
The
park is open from 8.30 a.m. to 8.30 p.m.
Bring: Lunch, walking shoes, lenses, and identification books.
..........
SUNDAY
JULY 22nd
Lullymore and Timahoe Bogs
A
Skipper butterfly was photographed here at this time last year, we hope to
re-locate the colony and ascertain which species of Skipper occurs on the site.
Leader: Charles Shier
By
Car: Take the N7
from Dublin, exit at Naas and take the R407 to Sallins and Clane and then the
R403 through Prosperous to Allenwood.
Bring: Outdoor
clothing, hiking or rubber boots, packed lunch, flora and fauna Information
books.
.
Report and photos July 22nd
.........
SATURDAY
JULY 28th
Robertstown Area
...
Report and photos July 28th
...
...
EVENTS PROGRAMME FEBRUARY - APRIL 2012
...
THURSDAY FEBRUARY 9th National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Talk:
Balancing
in the Burren - Conservation in a Living Landscape
The
Burren is one of Ireland’s best-loved landscapes. It is a treasure trove for
visiting botanists, entomologists, and archaeologists.
This talk looks at some of the Burren’s habitats and biodiversity, the
problems they face and the role of farming in their conservation.
Speaker:
Dr.
Sharon Parr
Sharon is the Project Scientist for The Burren Farming for Conservation
Programme
Venue: 8:00 p.m. sharp! National Botanic Gardens Visitor and Education
Centre
..........
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 11th
Bird watching at Kilcoole, Co. Wicklow
A walk on the Murrough. During this time of year there are usually large numbers of waders, ducks, geese, swans and sea birds present
Leader:
Pat Lenihan
Bring: Warm waterproof clothes, binoculars and lunch.
..........
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 18th
North
Bull Island
Estuary Birds at the Bull Island
This
is Good chance to see a range of waders including redshank, curlew, various
duck, Brent geese and many other bird species that feed around
Bull Island, and in estuarine mud fairly close to the road between Bull
Island and St. Anne's Park, Raheny.
Leader:
Peter
Craven
..........
SATURDAY
FEBRUARY 25th
MARLAY PARK
"Trees in early
Spring”
Find out how to recognise
our native trees and shrubs without their leaves on!
On a walk in Marlay Park, we will look at features such as tree shape, branching pattern, bark and buds to identify woody plants at this time of year.
Leader: Katy Duff
Bring: Hand lens if you have one, but not essential
..........
SATURDAY MARCH
3rd
Powerscourt Waterfall
Epiphytic plants including
Lichens, Fungi and Bryophytes
Leaders:
Howard Fox and Maria Cullen
Howard and Maria’s combined expertise in the so-called ‘lower’ plants is unsurpassed, and they have been monitoring the lichen, fungus and bryophyte flora of the Powerscourt Demesne for many years. Many species will be easily seen (even at a user-friendly height!) growing on the branches of trees and in other places in the general area of the Waterfall.
Wicklow’s generally warm and moist climate and the high humidity maintained by features like the Waterfall provide excellent conditions for a varied flora.
There is an entrance fee of €5.50 each adult payable by all, with reductions for OAPs and children, see http://www.powerscourt.ie/waterfall.
Bring: a good hand-lens (x10 or higher) will greatly add to your enjoyment of these usually rather small plants.
..........
THURSDAY
MARCH 15th
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Talk: Ireland’s Butterflies – A Review
Speaker:
Dr.
David Nash
Venue: Visitor and Education Centre, National Botanic Gardens
Time: 8:00
p.m.
Dr David Nash’s talk will mark the publication of “Ireland’s Butterflies – a Review”, the new, informative and beautifully illustrated book co-authored by David with Deirdre Hardiman and the late Trevor Boyd, The book, which covers all 34 species of butterfly in Ireland, is the result of the Butterfly Ireland fifteen year survey (1995-2009), conducted by several hundred recorders throughout Ireland ‘under the wings’ of the Dublin Naturalists’ Field Club and Butterfly Conservation’s Northern Ireland branch. The book contains the only up-to-date detail on the distribution of native and migrant Irish butterflies, and describes them, their habitats, life cycles, and when and where they may be seen, as well as considering biodiversity and conservation issues.
David Nash has a longstanding interest in the environment and natural history. He has contributed greatly to DNFC’s recent development, serving the Club in many ‘invisible’ roles as well as Treasurer and President and has been available to the Board for much-valued advice and support at all times. DNFC congratulate David on the publication of ‘Irish Butterflies – a Review’, it is a publication David and his co-authors can be very proud of, and DNFC are equally proud of our support of, and involvement with, the project.
Deirdre Hardiman is a photographer with a medical background and has done a lot of valuable work for DNFC in connection with our websites, our membership application leaflet, and our membership card and where ever a design artists’ input is required.
Trevor Boyd, MBE, FRMets was founding chairman of Butterfly Conservation and, B C’s Recorder for Northern Ireland, he was a leading member of the Belfast Naturalists’ Field Club. In tribute to him and his work, the Belfast Naturalists’ Field Club hosted the official launch of the book on February 18th in Trevor’s hometown, Helen’s Bay, Co Down,
The Dublin Naturalists’ Field Club wish to thank the family of the late Trevor for their help towards the publication of ‘Ireland’s Butterflies – A Review’
After the talk copies of the book will be available for sale @ €18 each. David and Deirdre will also be available to sign some copies.
..........
SATURDAY MARCH 17th Tymon Park
St Patrick’s Day Walk
Tymon
Park is situated on both sides of the M50.The River Poddle flows through it.
There are natural and artificial ponds and planted groves of trees which provide habitat for insects and birds. Wild flower meadows are
being developed and some hedgerows are preserved.
Leader: Mary Carson
Bring: Lunch, Lenses, Binoculars and Flower and Bird Identification books
..........
SATURDAY MARCH 24th Trinity College Geology Museum
This is a great
opportunity to learn about Rocks, Minerals and Fossils.
Bring:
any
speciments of your own that you want identified.
..........
SATURDAY APRIL 7th The Praeger Centre, National Botanic Gardens
Biological
Recording and Allied Subjects at the National Botanic Gardens
Leaders:
Declan Doogue & Gerry Sharkey
Maps
and mapping, their historical and current use in biological recording.
Grid
references and different grids currently in use for biological recording.
The
Global Positioning system and portable GPS equipment.
Weather will decide the nature of any outside activity and meeting’s duration
Bring: yourselves, your hand-lens and lunch, (or lunch in the gardens’ restaurant)
..........
Snails – an
under-appreciated group!
This event will include a
snail-hunting field trip, a presentation on some of the weird and wonderful
snails we have in Ireland, and there may be a workshop also, allowing people to learn some identification skills and put them
into practice
Leader:
Maria
Long
Bring:
Lunch, warm clothes, plastic butter or margarine tubs, and specimen
tubes to store collected snails Hand lens or magnifying glass
..........
SATURDAY
APRIL 21st
Rockpools
at Sandycove
This
meeting is specially for our younger members, though all are welcome.
As
usual, all children must be accompanied by an adult,.
Leaders:
Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Wear:
wellies or old runners that won't slip on wet rocks, warm waterproof
clothing.
A change of clothing might be useful.
Bring:
a
white plastic box, fishing net or a sieve, identification book.
..........
SATURDAY APRIL 28th Tullynally Castle, County Westmeath
Leader:
Jonathan
Shackleton
The Castle is surrounded by magnificent parkland dotted with ancient oaks and
the extensive gardens contain a remarkable collection of specimen
trees still being added to by Thomas Pakenham who has collected seed from China.
We will visit an untouched bog in the demesne and also some
woodland areas for spring flowers.
Bring: Warm waterproof clothes and Wellies are advisable, as is Lunch, Hand lens, identification books:
,,,
..........
NOVEMBER 2011 - JANUARY 2012
SATURDAY 5th NOVEMBER 2011 St Anne’s Park, Clontarf
At Snail’s Pace – A Beginners’
Guide to identifying Land Snails.
This event will include a presentation giving a broad and entertaining introduction to Land Snails in Ireland, along with information on what features to note for identification. We will then go snail-hunting in St. Anne's Park, and weather and time permitting, we may venture out onto nearby North Bull Island.
Leader: Maria Long
Directions: turn left from Clontarf Road onto Mount Prospect Avenue (this is the left turn when you just start to hit the park, on the way out of the city centre along the coast road) and take the first right into the car park (may be signposted “Red Stables Market”).
Bring: Warm clothes, lunch (though lunch may be available in the Stables Cafe) tubs/containers/tubes to store your collected snails in. Hand lens/magnifying glasses.
SATURDAY
12th NOVEMBER 2011
Howth
Leaders: Bob Aldwell and Frank Smyth
Bring: Hand lens, suitable clothing, lunch and identification books or charts
Transport: Dart to Howth
SATURDAY
19th NOVEMBER 2011
National
Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Annual
Members’ Day
SATURDAY
3rd DECEMBER 2011
Birds at Rogerstown
The South (‘old’) Bird Hide at Rogerstown is one of a very few relatively weather-proof venues regularly used by DNFC. At this time of year it is particularly attractive because of this, but also because of the variety of birds usually to be seen roosting and feeding at the narrow end of the estuary, which is overlooked by the hide, and in the nearby woods and fields.
Many species of wader including the now-ubiquitous Little Egret can be expected, as can predator species like Kestrel, Peregrine Falcon and Merlin. In recent years Buzzard have nested nearby and are usually about, while woodland and rough pasture in the surrounding area, some of which is managed for bird life, encourage mixed flocks of finches including Brambling. Less predictable but likely to be showing are many Duck species, and the ‘usual suspect’ Gulls which on a lucky day might contain a rarity or two!
A programme introducing young Red Kites caught in Wales includes plans to release about 40 birds in Fingal during 2011, including about 20 in Newbridge Estate, which borders the Rogerstown Estuary. Releases began during July. Whatever one thinks about re-introductions, it will be interesting to see how the birds get on, and whether we get to see any today!
Leaders: Pat Kearney, Brendan Black and Gerry Sharkey.
Bring: (Tele)scope and Bin(ocular)s and whatever identification books you like to use.
The ‘Collins Bird Guide’, (black cover) is currently favoured by many birders. There will be no formal break for lunch, but bring a sandwich / drink if you feel like it!
Don’t be afraid to turn up because you don’t know your birds, we will try to help anyone who is interested, and we promise not to shout at learners nor talk in latin!
Unfortunately, as with most trail heads / parking areas in the country, there have been thefts from cars in this area, so lock up, keep your scope, bins and cameras to hand, and leave anything else you care about at home, even the locked boot is not safe
.....
DECEMBER
25th CHRISTMAS DAY 2011
President Katharine Duff and your Board of Directors wish all a happy and peaceful Holiday.
MONDAY
26th DECEMBER 2011
Saint Stephen’s Day Ramble
Hoping we don't have a repeat of the 2010 *Arctic conditions, we will head across
Irishtown Nature Park in the direction of the South Wall
Leader: Katy Duff
Bring: Hand Warmers and Good Cheer!!
William Butler Yeats
January 1st
2012
Happy New Year!!
Do consider cheering up Fridolin by sending her your 2012 membership fee, which becomes due now! Do it now before you forget or discover how much you spent on Christmas!
Officially, our 125th year ends on January 11th but we will continue with some celebratory events during the first part of 2012.
SATURDAY
14th JANUARY 2012
River
Shannon Callows
Following on from our lovely visit to the Shannon Callows in June 2011 we will revisit it under winter conditions. The level of flood is unpredictable but as the peak of winter bird activity is in January we are hopeful of seeing Ducks, Geese, Waders and Swans. We hope to visit Ashton's Callow, which is a walk of about a mile. It has a Bird Hide. We also hope to revisit Bullock Island.
N.B. Check for any change or cancellation on www.dnfc.net (members’ note, first page) in case weather or road conditions between Dublin and Banagher prove too difficult for safe travel.
Leader: Brian Caffrey
Please park in Crank House car park- take first left 150 yards past Supervalu and the car park is on your right.
Bring: Wellies, Binoculars, Warm clothes and Lunch.
In Banagher there is a Supermarket near the car park, toilets will be available in Crank House. There is also a cafe in Crank House.
SATURDAY 21st JANUARY 2012
National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin
Bryophyte Identification Workshop
A repeat of the 2011 bryophyte
workshop, as requested by members
This workshop is open to members who
would like to find out more about how to identify mosses and liverworts. We have
run a number of successful bryophyte field outings over recent t years but
identification in the field is not always easy and the number of species
encountered can be overwhelming for those of us who are new to the subject. This
workshop will provide an opportunity to look at the general structure of mosses
and liverworts in more detail and to learn about the characteristics that are
useful for identification.
Leader: Jo Denyer
Bring: Microscopes (compound and dissecting), slides, cover slips, forceps , blades, socket boards etc. identification books, mosses and liverworts to identify.
You are also welcome to come along without any of the above
EVENTS PROGRAMME AUGUST 2011 - OCTOBER 2011
SATURDAY
AUGUST 6
POND DIPPING IN AIRFIELD
Leaders:
Niamh
Lennon and Jennifer Ball.
Luas: Balally Station and walk up Overend Way to Airfield.
Bring: wellies and old clothes, nets or sieves and plastic containers.
Note:
There
is an admission charge of €6 for adults, no charge for children.
No
Dogs Please
SUNDAY
AUGUST 7
NEWBRIDGE HOUSE and TURVEY, DONABATE
Leaders:
Declan
Doogue and Denis Lynch
By
Car:
exit
M1 motorway at Junction 4 for Newbridge House / Donabate
Bring: Sweepnet, collecting jars, lenses, umbrellas (for use as collecting trays) and lunch.
SATURDAY
AUGUST 13
UPPER DODDER GORGE, GLENASMOLE
The
areas we intend to visit include some interesting flushes and a steep gorge with
rich Bryophyte communities and Dublin's only site for Hymenophyllum wilsonii,
Wilson's Filmy Fern. Most of the terrain will be rough, so strong footwear with
good ankle support will be essential, and members are requested to follow any
safety instructions issued by the leader.
Descent into the gorge is 'tricky' and the less athletic and sure-of-foot might
prefer to stay at a higher level, where natural flushes contain scarce vascular
plants like Pinguicula lusitanica, Pale Butterwort.
Leader:
Con
Breen
Bus:
15c,
16,16a
Bring:
Lunch
Wear:
Strong
ankle-supporting walking boots for rough ground
Note:
DNFC's traditional 'no dogs' rule will be strictly enforced at this meeting.
This
DNFC event also forms part of the National Heritage Week Programme and will be
listed as Butterfly Identification and Recording for the National Database
(Butterfly Ireland)
Activity
of butterflies is especially weather and season dependent
Meet:
11:00
a.m. at the Interpretive Centre on North Bull Island, Dollymount, Dublin 3.
We
may visit other nearby locations such as St. Anne’s Park
Bring:
Hand
lens, identification books, suitable clothing, netsand lunch/snack
Meadow Brown © Deirdre Hardiman
A
number of sites in County Kildare will be visited
SATURDAY
SEPTEMBER 10
ROCKPOOLS AT BALSCADDEN, HOWTH
Leaders:
Niamh
Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Bring: Nets or sieves, containers, any identification books you might have, wellies or old runners that won't be slippy on wet rocks, change of clothes.
No Dogs please
SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 24 NEWTOWNMOUNTKENNEDY WOODS
The district has many woods, public (Coillte) and private. At this time of year, fungi might be expected in the leaf litter, and mosses grow thickly on trees and old walls.
Leader:
Mary
Carson
By
Car: N11 from
Dublin watch out for signs to Newtownmountkennedy. Allow 40 minutes approx. from
city centre. As you enter the village, take the sharp turn right after
Fishers shop/cafe and continue up the hill past the church of Ireland for a few
hundred metres. As the road swings left, you will see a faded map of
the woods and room for cars to park there.
Bring: Lunch, rubber boots and baskets for collecting fungi
SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 25 DONABATE
Coastal Ecology of North Dublin
We
will visit a number of sites on the Dublin coast, concentrating on the
Rogerstown Estuary and examine salt marsh, shingle and sandy areas at the tip of
the Portrane peninsula.
Leader:
Declan
Doogue
Bring:
Lunch
Speaker:
Jeanette
Fryer
Jeanette
has studied Cotoneasters for many years and holds the national collection.
Venue:
8:00
p.m. sharp! National Botanic Gardens Visitor and Education Centre
Various
botanical recorders have become very aware that several species of Cotoneaster
have become established in the wild. Some of these have now become seriously
invasive especially on rocky ground in areas of high conservation importance.
The identification workshop is intended to help members to identify the various
species that are increasingly encountered in the wild
Members are invited to bring material from the wild, pressed or freshly-collected, to the workshop session. Ideally both flowering and fruiting material from the same bush should be submitted on the day. Close-up digital images may also be helpful. There is an excellent guide to the species titled Cotoneasters - A comprehensive Guide to Shrubs for Flowers, Fruit and Foliage, written by Jeanette in conjunction with Bertil Hylmo. If you are interested in contributing to the event, please contact Declan Doogue.
From
Dalkey Dart station we will head towards Dalkey quarry, Killiney Hill and down
along Vico Road. We will
examine and identify any plants and insects of interest at this time in the
woodland, coastal and rocky habitats
Leaders:
Bob
Aldwell and Katharine Duff
Bring:
Suitable
clothing and hand lens
Meet: Donadea Forest car park.
Directions
(from Coillte website): Donadea
Forest Park is located 8 km south of Kilcock on the R407 to Naas and is also
accessible via the R407 about 13 km north of Naas on the Kilcock road. It can be
found on discovery map number 49, grid reference N-838 332. There is a charge of €4 for the car park.
SATURDAY
NOVEMBER 5
National Botanic Gardens Glasnevin
Ireland’s
Wildflower Stamps – The Plants and the Art.
Venue: Auditorium
Contributions
from: Susan Sex – the Artist who painted flowers for the stamps and John
Lennon from the Irish Philatelic Society who will talk about the stamps.
Speakers will also include Declan Doogue and Pat Lenihan from the DNFC. They
will discuss the featured Plants and their ecology
SATURDAY NOVEMBER 19 National Botanic Gardens Glasnevin
125th anniversary of The DNFC
1886 - 2011
After discussions during late 1885, the first meeting of the Dublin Naturalists’ Field Club took place on January 11th 1886.
So 2011 will be a very
special year, being our 125th anniversary.
We plan to mark the year with many celebratory events throughout, starting January 11th 2011
************************************
NOTE
Meetings of The Dublin Naturalists' Field Club are open to Members
and their Guests.
If
you wish to join applications should be made to
the Membership Secretary or by completion of the Membership Application Form
and sending to the
Membership Secretary
Fridolin Kerr
31 Cherrywood Park
Clondalkin
Dublin 22
************************************
SUNDAY
15th MAY 2011
SANDYCOVE ROCKPOOLS
As
usual, all children must be accompanied by an adult, and no dogs are allowed.
Leaders:
Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Meet: at James Joyce Tower in Sandycove, close to the "40 foot" bathing place.
Dart:
to Sandycove/Glasthule station. Cross the road when you come out of the
station. Turn right and then left down Islington Avenue to the sea coast
and go right until you get to James Joyce Tower.
Wear:
wellies or old runners that won't slip on wet rocks, warm waterproof clothing.
Bring:
a white plastic box, fishing net or a sieve, identification book.
SUNDAY
22nd MAY 2011
BIODIVERSITY DAY
All
over Dublin and the rest of Ireland, local authorities, parks, schools etc. will
be holding events designed to encourage interest in the natural environment.
These events will be mainly taking place on Sunday 22 but events are planned for
Friday and Saturday as well. Look out for local events, and try to encourage
your friends and neighbours to participate.
SATURDAY 28th MAY 2011 ST. CATHARINE’S WOODS / LIFFEY VALLEY
This
meeting will be held in conjunction with The Liffey Valley Park Alliance
We
will start in St Catherine’s Woods and after lunch visit another site in the
Liffey Valley
St.
Catherine’s Woods is the site of many old records of rare woodland plants, and
many of them can still be found there. If the weather is kind we will also
expect to see lots of Ladybirds, Butterflies, and other invertebrates.
Declan
will demonstrate a variety of insect-catching techniques, including
sweep-netting.
Leader:
Declan
Doogue
Meet: at the Fire Station in Leixlip.
Directions:
cross
the bridge over the Liffey in Leixlip and turn right.
Bring: insect–catching or sweeping nets if you them, and wellies and lunch
SUNDAY
29 MAY 2011
GREYSTONES
TO BRAY
While we in DNFC are quite proud to be celebrating our 125th anniversary it is sobering to think that the Botany Department in Trinity College Dublin is celebrating their 300th! We are very happy to have continuing close contact with Botany (and other departments) in Trinity, where some of our members make their living, numbering other DNFC members among their students. Long may this relationship continue!
In their first year, the intrepid DNFC members held a meeting on Bray Head, so it is particularly fitting that Trinity College Botanical Society and DNFC should hold a joint meeting during which we intend to walk from Greystones Dart Station over the Head to Bray, from where drivers can dart back to their cars. Better still leave the cars at home as we will join our Trinity colleagues in ‘joint celebratory libation’ after the meeting.
Leaders: Joint DNFC / TBS
Meet: at the Pier in Greystones Harbour
Bring: suitable footware and clothing, (check the weather forecast)
SATURDAY
11th JUNE 2011
RIVER SHANNON CALLOWS
Starting
from Banagher we will go to Shannon Harbour and
walk along the Grand Canal until we reach
lock 36, the last lock gate before the canal meets the mighty Shannon.
From here will cross on to Bullock Island, part of which forms the BirdWatch
Ireland Shannon Callows Reserve. One of the most beautiful callows along the
river, Bullock Island is best known as an important area for breeding
Corncrakes, however with a final count of just 2 Corncrakes in the midlands in
2010 the Corncrake population is on a knifeedge here. Other key bird species
include breeding Whinchat, Curlew, Skylark, Snipe and occasionally Spotted Crake
and Quail. The callows are
renowned for their flora and a walk through Bullock Island will reveal a rich diversity of plant life, including some rare orchids. A sunny day will ensure that Bullock Island is buzzing with butterflies and dragonflies, among the highlights we would hope to see Brown Hawker,
Banded Demoiselle and Common Blue butterfly
Leader: Brian Caffrey
Meet:
at
the Crank House, Banagher Co. Offaly.
Please
park in the Crank House car park - take your first left 150 yards past Supervalu
supermarket and the car park is on your right.
Bring: wellies, binoculars & lunch
In Banagher there is a supermarket near the carpark, toilets will be available in the Crank House. There is also a café in the Crank House.
(If bringing your American visitors, reassure them that it is spelled CRANK, with an N)
TUESDAY 14th JUNE 2011 NORTH BULL ISLAND
Habitat ecology of the Dublin Coast: The vegetation and environment of North Bull Island
On Saint Patrick’s Day we visited one of the temporary ‘lakes’ that have appeared in winter in places on North Bull. We promised at the time to come back to see what changes occur in summer, hence this evening meeting
Leaders: Declan Doogue and Gerry Sharkey
Meet: in the car park on the Island end of Bull Wall (not the causeway), beyond the entrance to Royal Dublin Golf Club.
SATURDAY 25th JUNE 2011 IRELAND’S EYE
Weather permitting, a shuttle boat service operates from Howth to the island throughout the day. There is a charge of €15 per adult, €10 per child. Family reductions apply.
Declan has been comparing flora listings for Ireland’s Eye from various sources, and will have prepared a list of species that have not been seen recently, and we will search for these
If visiting the island proves difficult an alternative land-based outing on Howth will take place.
Leader: Declan Doogue
Meet: at East Pier, Howth near the King Sitric Restaurant.
Bring: suitable clothing for boat ride, strong walking boots and lunch
SATURDAY 9th JULY 2011 COASTAL FLORA, NEWCASTLE, CO. WICKLOW
A walk along the shingle beach to look at sea shore plants. We hope to see Crambe maritima as well as two species that have not been seen regularly on our littoral outings in North County Dublin: Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum) and the Horned Poppy (Glaucium flavum).
Leader: Pat Lenihan
Meet: on the beach at Newcastle. The outing will end in early afternoon
Bring: lunch
By
car:
from Dublin, exit the N11 left at the new Kilcoole/Greystones turning (a little further
south of the R762 exit to Delgany at the Glen of the Downs). Follow the signs to
Kilcoole and continue through the village to Newcastle. In Newcastle, just past
the Castle Inn, take the first turn left (Sea Road) after crossing the bridge.
Continue down this road to the coast. Parking is available in front of the level
crossing.
By
bus:
Newcastle can also be reached by the No. 84 bus which departs from
Belfield. The journey takes about 75 minutes.
SUNDAY 24th JULY 2011 TIMAHOE NORTH BOG
Timahoe Bog lies to the north of Allenwood and east of Carbury. It was developed by Bord na Móna in the 1940s for the mechanised production of sod turf. We previously visited the southern end of the bog, which was also used for producing milled peat. Recolonisation of this southern area was strongly influenced by minerotrophic conditions, owing to the shallow residual depths of peat.
This time we will visit the northern end of the bog, which was not milled, and where recolonisation has taken place on a more acidic medium. Areas we will be examining include: degraded raised bog remnants, revegetated wet and dry spreadgrounds, and the former railway bed made with imported calcareous materials.
Leader: Charles Shier
By
Car: from
Dublin take the N4/M4, exit the motorway at Enfield and take the R402 to Carbury
and then the R403 to Derrinturn;
OR
Take the N7, exit at Naas and take the R407 to Sallins and Clane, and
then the R403 through Prosperous and Allenwood to Derrinturn.
Bring: outdoor clothing, hiking or rubber boots, packed lunch, floras.
SATURDAY 6th AUGUST 2011 POND DIPPING IN AIRFIELD
This annual event is a great favourite of Junior Members of the DNFC, but everyone is welcome to come along. The small Pond is usually teeming with life at this time of the year. Airfield have built another Pond in recent years. It is much bigger and has a Boardwalk going over it. We'llvisit it also.
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball.
Meet: at Airfield ticket Kiosk. The outing will last for 2 hours.
Bus:
48A
(from Parnell Sq.),44 or 44C (from Townsend St).Get off the bus opposite the
Catholic church on Main Street, Dundrum. Walks up Kilmacud Rd. for approx 1 mile
and Airfield House, Farm and Gardens is on tdughe right.
Luas:
to
Balally Station and walk up Overend Way to Airfield.
Bring: wellies and old clothes, Nets or sieves and Plastic Containers.
Note: there is an admission charge of €6 for adults, no charge for children.
ALL CHILDREN MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY AN ADULT
NO DOGS PLEASE
************************************
EVENTS PROGRAMME JANUARY 2011 - MAY 2011
SUNDAY
15th MAY 2011
SANDYCOVE ROCKPOOLS
This meeting is specially for our younger members. We will visit rockpools in
Sandycove. This stretch of coast provides both sheltered and more exposed
habitats teeming with life.
As usual, all children must be accompanied by an adult, and no dogs are allowed.
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Contact: 087 263 0020
Meet: 2:30 p.m. at James
Joyce Tower in Sandycove, close to the "40 foot" bathing place.
The outing will finish at 4:30pm.
Dart: to
Sandycove/Glasthule station. Cross the road when you come out of the
station. Turn right and then left down Islington Avenue to the sea
coast and go right
until you get to James Joyce Tower.
Wear: wellies or old runners that won't slip on wet rocks, warm waterproof clothing
Bring: a white plastic box, fishing net or a sieve, identification book.
************************************
THURSDAY
27th JANUARY
NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS GLASNEVIN
Lecture:
“Ireland’s
vegetation on the move: from the Ice Age to now and beyond“
Speaker:
Professor Fraser
Mitchell, Botany Department, TCD
Time:
8:00 p.m.
Venue:
Visitor and
education Centre, National Botanic Gardens
This
event is organised by our friends, the Irish Garden Plant Society.
SATURDAY
29th JANUARY 2011
GIRLEY BOG, COUNTY MEATH
Bring:
Lunch, wellies,
suitable clothing
Directions:
Starting from the centre of Kells Town, take the N52 following the signs
for Mullingar. On the outskirts of the town turn right – following the N52 for
Mullingar. Continue to follow the N52 for approximately 7 km. Turn left onto a
forestry roadway and follow for approximately 100 m to reach the trailhead.
The trailhead is signposted from Kells (small brown roadsigns).
(directions
copied from Meath.ie website)
SUNDAY
6th FEBRUARY 2011
LADYBIRDS IN THE FAIRVIEW AREA
If you have found any dead ladybirds that did not make it through the long cold spell, bring them along and we will try to identify them for you.
Leader: Declan Doogue
Bring:
Lunch,
Hand Lens, small clear plastic bag (for holding specimens without damaging them
during examination) small artists’ paint-brushes.
A
wide selection of wading birds and duck feed and roost on the mud and shallow
waters of Rogerstown. On recent visits we have seen Buzzard and other birds of
prey including Peregrine, Merlin and Kestrel. There are also usually Little
Egret about.
Large
mixed flocks of finches including Brambling were to be seen in the surrounding
fields thanks to the planting of seed crops to provide suitable food for them,
but these have been scarcer since planting stopped. But keep a lookout along the
lanes on the way to the hide.
We hope to see lots of Sea Life creatures on our tour today, such as Crabs, Starfish. Anemones, Coral Reef, Sea Horses and lots more, you will also get to touch some if you wish.
A member of staff
in Sea Life Centre will bring us around and talk to us about some of the tanks.
Meet:
at the reception in Centre.
Our tour will last 1 hour (approx). Adults need not come on the tour itself, but
we will expect them to be there to collect their children when the tour has
ended if they have chosen not to.
Transport:
Dart Train and Bus go to Bray Railway Station. The Sea Life Centre is a
15 min minute walk from there.
SATURDAY
26TH FEBRUARY 2011
LULLYMORE WETLANDS
Joint meeting with BBS Dublin regional
group
Bring:
Lunch, wellies and suitable clothing. (If there has been recent
rain then the site could be very wet and wellies will be essential.)
SUNDAY
6th MARCH 2011
MOLLUSCS in BUSHY PARK
In
1904 AW Stelfox (DNFC Vice-president 1924 - 1926) published a paper in the Irish
Naturalist containing the results of his survey of the molluscan fauna of Bushy
Park in Dublin. With the help of our guests from the Conchological Society of
Great Britain and Ireland whom we have invited to take part in this meeting as
part of our 125th Anniversary celebrations, we will compare
Stelfox’s list with later workers’ listings and with what we can find in
2011.
Meet:
at 11:00 a.m. near the bridge over the Dodder forming the entrance to the
Park from the parking lay-by on Springfield Avenue. Rathfarnham Shopping Centre
is nearby where you may be able to park if the lay-by is full.
Bring:
any Field Guide to Slugs and Snails you have. Containers like margarine
tubs are useful and plastic gloves for handling molluscs if you are squeamish.
Bees and other early Insects
For
several years now rumours of bumblebee hives staying active and even producing
young during winter have been the subject of comment on radio programmes and in
newspaper articles. In some cases these represent the normal occasional sorties
by ‘hibernating’ queens, but workers of Bombus terrestris, the
Buff-tailed bumblebee, have been confirmed in December and January from many
places over the past three years or so, and as workers generally live no more
than a few weeks, workers seen in January are likely to have started life during
December. One place where B .terrestris can be seen actively foraging
during winter on winter-flowering Mahonia and other species is in the Botanic
Gardens, and we will probably see some to-day, together with other Bumblers and
Solitary Bees that don’t live in formal communities, as well as other insects.
THURSDAY
17th MARCH 2011 ST PATRICK’S DAY
NORTH BULL ISLAND
Temporary
‘lakes’ have appeared regularly in winter in places on North Bull. We will
have a close look at one of these near the old Bull Wall (the wooden bridge)
which in the past couple of years is large and deep enough to attract Swans!
SATURDAY
19th and SUNDAY 20th MARCH 2011 CONNEMARA NATIONAL PARK
SUNDAY
27th MARCH 2011
KNOCKMAROON GATE, PHOENIX PARK
SATURDAY
2nd APRIL 2011
VALE of CLARA, COUNTY WICKLOW
Leaders:
Colm Ronayne and Gerry Sharkey
Parts
of the woodland of Clara Vale have been cleared, leaving Scots Pine, old Oaks
and some other native species. We will look out for Bees and other early
insects.
SUNDAY
10th APRIL
SAINT COLUMBA’S COLLEGE
Leader:
Richard
McMullen
Directions:
From
Dublin, drive past Rathfarnham village. At the Yellow House pub turn right, then
left at the Tuning Fork pub, and follow the winding road to Whitechurch (Grange
Golf Club on your left). Take the first exit off the roundabout, past
Whitechurch National School, then straight on under the fly-over for the
Southern Cross motorway and left at the little roundabout. The College is on the
left about 50 metres up Kilmashogue Lane. Follow the main drive to the car park
just past the Hockey pavilion on the left hand side.
SATURDAY
16th APRIL 2011
BALLYBETAGH WOOD COUNTY WICKLOW
Club Member Hillary Knott, husband Howard and their neighbours have kindly invited DNFC to explore their land including part of Ballybetagh Wood.
Meet: at
11:00 a.m. at ‘The Cottage’.
You
will go round several roundabouts and then up a long straight road, Glenamuck
Road At T junction, opposite a Yellow pub called Palmers Golden Ball, take
the left turn. Take 1st major turn right, opposite Topaz garage,
signposted “Glencullen” we are 1.5 kilometres from this junction. Stay on
this road keeping left, go round 2 severe left hand bends, the road begins to
climb , you come to a fork signed Glencullen, take the left fork, we are then
the first gate on the left.
Bring:
suitable footwear and clothing for a walk in the open, check weather
forecast.
The Knotts have also kindly offered to provide us with tea / coffee, but it would be quite unfair to expect them to feed us, so bring along whatever you wish to eat.
MONDAY
18th APRIL 2011
BOTANY LECTURE THEATRE, TRINITY COLLEGE
Full
details will be posted to members during March in accordance with our legal
responsibilities.
MONDAY
2nd MAY 2011
SUTTON
SATURDAY
7th and SUNDAY 8th May 2011 DNFC ANNUAL WEEKEND MEETING
SUNDAY
15th MAY 2011
SANDYCOVE ROCKPOOLS
This meeting is specially for our younger members. We will visit rockpools in
Sandycove. This stretch of coast provides both sheltered and more exposed
habitats teeming with life.
As usual, all children must be accompanied by an adult, and no dogs are allowed.
Leaders: Niamh Lennon and Jennifer Ball
Contact: 087 263 0020
Meet: 2:30 p.m. at James
Joyce Tower in Sandycove, close to the "40 foot" bathing place.
The outing will finish at 4:30pm.
Dart: to
Sandycove/Glasthule station. Cross the road when you come out of the
station. Turn right and then left down Islington Avenue to the sea
coast and go right
until you get to James Joyce Tower.
Wear: wellies or old runners that won't slip on wet rocks, warm waterproof clothing
Bring: a white plastic box, fishing net or
a sieve, identification book.
****
NOTE
Meetings of The Dublin Naturalists' Field Club are open to Members
and their Guests.
If
you wish to join applications should be made to
the Membership Secretary or by completion of the Membership Application Form
and sending to the
Membership Secretary
Fridolin Kerr
31 Cherrywood Park
Clondalkin
Dublin 22
************************************
SUNDAY
26th DECEMBER
2010
IRISHTOWN NATURE PARK
Leader:
David Nash
************************************
~ Happy New Year to all and watch out for special events on your programmes for 2011 ~
125th anniversary of The DNFC
1886 - 2011
After discussions during late 1885, the first meeting of the Dublin Naturalists’ Field Club took place on January 11th 1886.
So 2011 will be a very
special year, being our 125th anniversary.
We plan to mark the year with many celebratory events throughout, starting January 11th 2011
and
including a weekend trip to Inis Meáin in early May with Con Breen
************************************
SUNDAY
9th JANUARY 2011
NATIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS
Leader:
Jo
Denyer
Please bring along the following if you have them: microscopes (compound and dissecting, slides, coverslips, forceps, blades, socket boards etc.), identification books, mosses and liverworts to identify. You are welcome to come along without any of the above.
************************************
TUESDAY
11th JANUARY 2011
NATURAL HISTORY MUSEUM
Talk:1 pm-1.45 pm
Venue: the Ceramics Room, National Museum of Ireland, Kildare St. Dublin
125th ANNIVERSARY OF INAUGURAL DNFC MEETING
This first event marking the formation of DNFC 125 years ago to-day will consist of a couple of talks and a brief tour of the Natural History Museum.
'The Formation of the Dublin Naturalists' Field Club, the Founders and the Times'
************************************
SATURDAY
29th JANUARY 2011
GIRLEY BOG, CO. MEATH
The Girley Bog NHA, 7.5 kms from Kells, Co. Meath contains varied habitat including one of the few Raised Bogs in Co. Meath, and one of very few uncut raised bogs anywhere, though drainage associated with peat extraction in other parts of this NHA, and drains cut through the raised bog itself are a cause of damage. The site also has cutover bog and mixed-age commercial forest, including Sitka Spruce, Lodgepole and Scots Pine. The Raised Bog has the full complement of Sphagnum mosses expected on this type of habitat, but rare in the east.
‘Girley’ is perhaps less attractive than it sounds, being an anglicised version of an old gaelic word for a swampy place, so be warned!
Leader:
Maurice
Eakin
Bring:
Lunch, wellies, suitable clothing
Directions:
Starting from the centre of Kells Town, take the N52 following the signs
for Mullingar. On the outskirts of the town turn right – following the N52 for
Mullingar. Continue to follow the N52 for approximately 7km. Turn left onto a
forestry roadway and follow for approximately 100m to reach the trailhead.
The trailhead is signposted from Kells (small brown roadsigns)
(Directions copied from Meath.ie website)
NOTE
Meetings of The Dublin Naturalists' Field Club are open to Members
and their
Guests.
If you wish to join applications
should be made to the Membership Secretary or by completion of the Membership
Application Form
and sending to the
Membership Secretary
Fridolin Kerr
31 Cherrywood Park
Clondalkin
Dublin 22
*******************************************************************************************************
Marsh Helleborine Epipactis palustris
************************************
BIRDS
Equisetum telmateia
Angle
Shades (Phlogophora meticulosa)
Sea Spleenwort
(Asplenium marinum)
Ballast
Pit
Kidney Vetch
(Anthyllis vulneraria)
Western Clover
(Trifolium
occidentale)
Fissidens species
Rober
Lloyd Praeger
Pollardstown
Fen
Corkagh Demesne
Corkagh Demesne
Dandelion
Frogspawn
& developing tadpoles
Atlas Moth (largest moth in the world) with wingspan of 30cm (above)
Luna Moth (Actias luna), wingspan approx. 11cm
Brent Goose: RSPB
Dalkey Quarry
********************************************
Orchis (Anacamptis) morio
Green-winged orchid
Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion
Cerastium
diffusum
Sea Mouse-ear
Donabate
Ornithopus
perpusillus
Bird's-foot
Howth
Marsh
Fritillary
Trichomanes
speciosum Killarney Fern
Co Tipperary
DHardiman
