Overview

There's more to Irish bird folklore than the 'wran' boys and the Children of Lir. Birds have been part of our culture from very early times and there are countless beliefs, proverbs and curses associated with them: we believed cuckoos turned into hawks, woodcock holidayed on the moon and some birds grew on trees. This informative, updated guide gives a species-by-species account of 150 wild, domesticated and extinct birds and any associated beliefs, myths, legends, weather lore, culinary traditions and more. Learn the rich meaning of bird names: the dotterel was known as amadan mointeach, which means 'bog idiot' and the dunnock was called mathair cheile, which translates as 'mother-in-law'. Birds have also influenced place names throughout the country, such as the Curlew Mountains in Roscommon or Hawk's Nest, County Antrim. Each entry ends with a 'Facts & Figures' section, listing species numbers in Ireland, where it is common and its longevity. This entertaining compendium will bring joy to bird lovers and general readers alike.

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9781848893139

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Reviews

'A rich celebration of the interplay of birds with ancient human needs for magic and mystery.' The Irish Times 'Highly entertaining.' Sunday Independent 'Lavishly illustrated.' Irish Examiner

Author Information

Glynn Anderson, from Islandbridge in Dublin city, has a passion for writing and nature. To follow his love of nature, he moved from a career in IT to become a guide and information officer at the National Botanic Gardens, Dublin.

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