Dead Redwings on beach

SpaceBlaze

While walking along the Inch beach, Co. Kerry on Saturday I found 2 Redwings, one dead and the other died a few minutes after I discovered it . I understand that Redwings migrate here from northern europe and these birds could have probably died from exhaustion but what I can't understand is why they were on this beach, its westerly facing and is at the base of the Dingle peninsula so its not like it would have been the first piece of land they would have encountered. If anyone could explain what they were doing there I would be very grateful. Newbie twitcher so glad for any help

ytpe2r5bxkn0c1

The recent strong North Easterly airflow we have been experiencing has driven Redwings and Fieldfares further West than usual. Many have struggled to find sufficient food in the extreme conditions. These birds are some of the many casualties of Winter in general and this cold snap in particular. They fled the wintery conditions as far as they could and ran out of land and food!

bogtreader

I have seen quite a few redwings they seem to hang around in groups
a few fairly bedraggled ones they must be knackered flying back
again after only just arriving wherever they were hopefully now
the thaw has set in ther will be more food for them

Kess73

I have one redwing in particular that looks very beragged in my garden.

The poor thing was like a drunk yesterday and could barely get under bushes to hide. He has spent today tucking into suet pellets, seed, mealworm and fruit and was looking a lot strong/more alert tonight when he made his way into one of the bushes to roost for the night.

I shall be keeping a special eye out for the poor mite over the next few days to make sure a few treats are left in the areas that he forages the most around the garden.