Keep an eye out for redwings this winter

We hear a lot about the geese, ducks and swans that arrive here from colder climes for the winter, but much less about smaller birds that come here to escape harsher conditions in northern Europe.

Last week, while in a line of stopped traffic between Rathkeale and Adare, Co Limerick, I spotted some feeding activity in roadside hedges. The energetic birds were hopping from branch to branch and flying hither and thither, barely stopping for a second. On closer observation, they turned out to be redwings feasting on berries.