Birds in Northern Ireland
Explore 166 species found in this region.
Northern Ireland is home to an impressive 164 recorded bird species, thriving across a rich tapestry of habitats from the vast shores of Lough Neagh and Strangford Lough to the rugged Antrim coastline and rolling upland moorlands. Wading birds such as the Northern Lapwing and Common Sandpiper frequent the region's wetlands, while woodlands and hedgerows support species like the Great Tit and Magpie. Coastal estuaries and mudflats attract wintering wildfowl including Common Shelduck and Common Merganser, making Northern Ireland a rewarding destination for birdwatchers year-round.
Visiting in April? Look out for Atlantic Puffin and Barn Swallow arriving this month, and Barnacle Goose and Common Loon depart for the season.
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Get Your Free DigestShowing 162–166 of 166 species
Willow Warbler
Phylloscopus trochilusLC
An uncommon summer breeder from April to September, favouring scrubby woodland and hedgerows. Its gentle descending song is a hallmark of the Northern Irish countryside.
Apr–Sep
Woodpigeon
Columba palumbusLC
A common and abundant resident found in gardens, parks, farmland, and woodland throughout the year. One of the most familiar birds.
Year-round
Yellow-browed Warbler
Phylloscopus inornatusLC
A rare autumn passage migrant, typically appearing briefly in October. This tiny Siberian warbler occasionally turns up along the coast after easterly winds.
Oct
Yellow-legged Gull
Larus michahellisLC
A rare visitor, occasionally recorded among mixed gull flocks at coastal and inland sites. Identification requires careful attention to leg colour and mantle tone.
Jan–Sep
Yellowhammer
Emberiza citrinellaLC
A rare passage visitor, occasionally recorded in farmland and hedgerow edges. Has declined significantly across Ireland in recent decades.
Jan–Jun