First-winter male King Eider, near Castlegregory

First-winter male King Eider, near Castlegregory, 9th January 2021 (Michael O'Clery).

The fourth record for Kerry, and the first male, following a female at Dingle in February 2001, a female at Ballinskelligs in December 2017 and a female at Castlegregory in February 2017, which also returned the following winter. Let's hope this one stays for people to enjoy and returns in full colourful male plumage next winter.

Adult Kumlien's Gull at Blennerville

 

Adult Kumlien's Gull, Blennerville, 2nd January 2021 (Ed Carty).

This is the 55th record for Co. Kerry, and the 18th adult bird.

Adult Kumlien's Gull, Blennerville, 2nd January 2021 (Ed Carty).

Adult Kumlien's Gull, Blennerville, 2nd January 2021 (Ed Carty).

 

More winter goodies

First-winter Glaucous Gull, Camp river mouth, 2nd January 2021 (Michael O'Clery).

First-winter Glaucous Gull, Camp river mouth, 2nd January 2021 (Michael O'Clery).

Spotted Redshank, Reenroe, 1st January 2021 (A.Non).

Female Eider, Reenroe, 1st January 2021 (A.Non).

Purple Sandpipier, Rough Point, 21st December 2020 (Michael O'Clery).
Up to 35 were present in the area.