Cave Hill Conservation Campaign
Established in 1989
Awarded The Queen's Award for Voluntary Service in 2019.
Images of Events held in 2023
Rocks of Cave Hill 15th April
Members had a wonderful Geology walk on 15th April with Kirstin Lemon, learning about the formation of Cave Hill and the geological development of Belfast Lough, the Mournes, Lagan Valley, Northern Ireland and, well, the world. There were 10 of us in total, the weather was perfect and Jack was waxing lyrical. The walk took us along the Cave Hill trail past the Devil's Punchbowl, the caves, McArt's Fort and the Limestone Quarry. Many thanks to Kirstin and to the members for an enjoyable morning. We had perfect weather conditions for the walk. A gratifying dander and some knowledge gained on the way.
Dawn Chorus
John O’Boyle led a small group of members, just after dawn, around the Park. The walk was from 5.00 until 8.00 am and was especially suited for early risers, eight of whom gathered at the gates to the park at the top of Innisfayle Park. There was an enormous variety of birds, from warblers to those which flew here from distant parts of the world. It was a windless but dull day so we were better able to hear the large number of birds singing and calling. John, our expert, identified the songs or calls of Blackcaps, Willow Warblers, Chiff-chaff, Robins, Wrens, Great Tits, Song Thrush, Blackbirds, Magpies, Hooded Crows, Wood Pigeons, Collared Doves, Chaffinches, Whitethroats and many. To our disappointment, we did not hear the Woodpecker that morning! Thank you John for your company and for sharing your vast knowledge!
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Birds of Cave Hill
Continuing the theme of birds from earlier in May, 28 supporters met on Saturday 27th May at the Castle to join bird expert Aidan Crean. Alan told us how birds navigate their way to faraway places with accuracy and are able to return to the same locations they had started out from. He told us about the habits of different species of birds, how they adapt to predators and other challenges and cooperate to increase their chances of survival. He also told us what's can learn from birds and what we can do to help them. We observed Aidan ring and release a blue tit and a dunnock. Those present really got involved, asking lots of questions and swapping their own stories. Alan also gave us some useful tips for bird feeders and boxes. A big, big thanks to Aidan for a truly fascinating session.
