In the past two to three days, the first Grasshopper Warblers have been heard singing in Kerry. Although a common summer visitor to the county they are rarely seen, preferring to remain hidden in damp thickets, bramble covered fields and wetland margins. They are for much of the time more mouse-like than bird-like, creeping furtively through thick vegetation near to or on the ground.
This is a good time to try and see one however, as newly arrived birds are initially unpaired and will sing for extended periods day and night. The song is a distinctive reeling, sounding quite mechanical, and often lasting several minutes. It is then that the bird will perch higher up the vegetation and offer a rare glimpse.
Grasshopper Warbler, near Scartaglen, 25th April 2014 (Michael O'Clery).
Grasshopper Warbler, near Scartaglen, 25th April 2014 (Michael O'Clery).
A more typical view of a Grasshopper Warbler, in dense vegetation. Near Scartaglen, 25th April 2014 (Michael O'Clery).
This individual was often perching in the open while singing. Near Scartaglen, 25th April 2014 (Michael O'Clery).
