Copeland Bird Observatory Winter talks at the Ulster Museum

Copeland Bird Observatory Winter talks at the Ulster Museum

AGM — Tuesday 11^th March at 7.30 — including

CBO Review of the year — 2013 with Kerry Leonard & Chris Acheson

2013 was another busy year on CBO. In April, Copeland experienced a Fall of migrating warblers with large numbers of Willow Warbler and Blackcap arriving. Manx Shearwater tracking continued in the spring, and summer saw Arctic Tern chicks fledge in numbers not seen on the Observatory for over fifty years. The Habitat Management programme continued, resulting in more areas restored to maritime short-sward, and two new jetties were constructed. Following on from the business end of the AGM, Copeland ornithologists Kerry Leonard and Chris Acheson will review some of the Copeland highlights of 2013.

From the Falklands to the Antarctic Peninsula —presented by Jim McNair —
The vast expanse of the South Atlantic and the Southern Ocean is the preferred habitat of many species of pelagic animals and birds. This habitat is subject to constant strong currents, endless winds and frequently violent storms. The seemingly sparse distribution of animals throughout the region is in stark contrast to the breeding colonies of the Falkland Islands, South Georgia and the Antarctic Peninsula.
Jim McNair describes a journey southward through the South Atlantic, across the Antarctic convergence to the Antarctic peninsula to visit colonies of Black Browed Albatross, Rockhopper, Gentoo, King and Chinstrap penguins. Colonies were patrolled by Cara Cara, Skua and Snowy Sheathbill, exploiting the abundance of potential prey and feeding opportunities. Many other species were observed against the magnificent backdrop of South Georgia and Antarctica.

Admission to CBO winter meetings at the Ulster Museum is free and open to all.

The meetings commence at 7.30 pm, and finish at 9.45 pm. Please use the Stranmillis Road entrance.