Ballyboughal Water Walkabout with Ecologist Dr Mary Tubridy

With Ecologist Dr Mary Tubridy explore the river meadows where the village started as a Grange farm for St Mary's Abbey in 1300's medieval Dublin. We have pipistrelle bats here, wild flowers, otters and birds including the kingfisher and the heron amidst the rushes, oaks, willows, alder and a newly planted heritage apple garden. We will pass by the recycled water planters on the way to the ancient Reilig or cemetery where stands the 13th century Abbey ruin with its bell cote, ancient yew trees, birdbaths and a unique secret fountain

This is a nature focussed walkabout. Do come and ask questions about how we can make our villages and graveyards more nature friendly for birds and bugs by providing more water habitats. We have made some bird baths using recycled materials (including a dustbin lid!) and we hope to enter for the Eco-Congregation Award which aims to return 30% of church lands to nature and make our sacred spaces a haven for biodiversity