Pandemic passions: Stargazing, horticulture, and birdwatching attract new fans 

Astronomy Ireland said its membership has almost doubled in recent months due to what it called a 'huge surge of interest in nature and space'. Picture: Gregory Rec/Portland Portland Press Herald via Getty Images

The seemingly neverending Covid-19 pandemic has played havoc with most of our lives, but it seems Irish people have rediscovered long-dormant passions and hobbies, as well as trying new ones, over the past year.

Stargazing, horticulture, and birdwatching are just some of the new pastimes that people are enjoying in never-before-seen numbers, according to aficionados in various niche fields.