A Bird’s-Eye View Of Bellevue

Dick Coombes & Jennifer Whitmore MON7JULY25

ith news breaking earlier today of a 100-acre Bellevue land sale, tonight’s talk on bird conservation in the Glen Of The Downs took on a new impetus.

There were those present who are neighbours of both Bellevue Woods and of the 197 acres that went to market back in September, and beyond 29 acres secured for Eire Óg, this latest twist is significant.

Dang, it could be a game-changer.

Finding out just who has bought the 100-acre plot could make the world of difference for not just the neighbours but everyone living around here, with local TD Jennifer Whitmore having campaigned strongly for the National Parks and Wildlife Services to step in and cough up, and thus extend the existing Glen Of The Downs woods.

But first, tonight’s gathering was really all about Dick Coombes, the man who coordinated the national Countryside Bird Survey for over 20 years with BirdWatch Ireland and remains a leading advocate for woodland bird conservation.

“This talk reminded us that if we get the habitat right, nature can and will look after itself, and Dick helped us understand that oak-dominated woodlands are a cornerstone for healthy bird populations. Their ability to support such rich insect life creates a foundation for birds to survive and thrive,” Deputy Whitmore stated.

“This event showed just how much appetite there is for nature restoration in Wicklow. The community is ready, and the experts are ready. Now we need the Government to step up and secure the rest of the Glen once and for all.”

For the closing Q&A, the talk gradually went from how we can help our feathered friends thrive in a changing climate to the difference having 100 acres of virgin land to play with could make.

As Whitmore states, “This is a hugely significant site, and it’s vital that it ends up in public hands. If the NPWS have indeed secured it, that would be a major win for biodiversity and for the people of Wicklow. But we need clarity.

“I will be following up directly with the Minister for Biodiversity this week to seek confirmation and to urge the Government to act decisively on the remaining lands in the area.”

In the meantime, here’s Dick Coombe’s complete guide to Glen Of The Downs’ birds, complete with imitations…

Based over in Kilcoole, you can find out more about BirdWatch Ireland right here.