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Tacumshin

Wexford  >  Ireland

A coastal lake with mudflats and extensive reedbeds that attact a wide variety of birds.

Added* by Stephen McAvoy
Most recent update 12 February 2020

Description

As one of the top birding sites in Ireland, Tacumshin should be on every itinerary regardless of the time of year. The mudflats and marshy areas attract an amazing diversity of wetland birds, and it has an exceptional reputation for attracting rare waders.

Covering almost 5 square kilometers, Tacumshin is a caostal lagoon which became enclosed by the dune system on its southern side. It is shallower than nearby Lady's Island Lake, with extensive mudflats on the edge of the lake. Extensive reedbeds fringe the lake, particularly on the western side. Also on the west is the 'Racetrack' covered in glasswort and other halo-tolerant plants. A small lake, the East End pool lies amid the reedbeds on the east side of the lake.

The birdlife is very diverse, and it is typical to see over 60-70 species in a days birding here at any time of year.

Details

Access

Access by public transport is difficult with no local bus services. The nearest bus stops are located at Tagoat, about 8 kilometres to the east or in Tomhaggard, four kilometres to the west. The stop in Tagoat is regularly served whereas the stop near Tomhaggard (Tenacre Cross) has less frequent services stopping there. The nearest train station is at Rosslare Harbour, and it may be an option to take a taxi or cycle from here.

Even by car Tacumshin is a tricky place to find as it requires navigating a number of narrow roads off the N25 from Wexford. There is a small car park at the East End of Tacumshin, and very limited and narrow parking at the Forgotten Corner. There is further access via Lingstown and the Tomhaggard End.

Once away from the car park, there are only muddy trails on mudflats and through reedbeds that require Wellingtons at all time of year.

Be aware that when crossing the mudflats at the southern end of Tacumshin to get to 'The Patches' that there may be very soft mud that is very easy to get stuck in!

Terrain and Habitat

Wetland , Lake , Beach , Mud flats , Reedbeds , Dunes , Sea , Grassland

Conditions

Flat , No shadow , Sandy , Wet , Open landscape , High water possible

Circular trail

Yes

Is a telescope useful?

Yes

Good birding season

All year round

Best time to visit

Autumn migration

Route

Narrow trail

Difficulty walking trail

Strenuous

Accessible by

Foot

Birdwatching hide / platform

No

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