Readers' observations on nature.
I am a contradiction in being a birdwatcher and a shooter (strictly game). With reference to the absence of garden birds, recently while rough shooting in Co Carlow I was amazed to see how many were flushed from cover by our dogs: backbirds, song and mistle thrushes, fieldfares and redwings by the dozen, and the various finches and tits, etc. The reason being the abundance of food in the form of berries, and insect life was still active.
Denis Liston, Bray, Co Wicklow
In mid-November, when out in my boat around the back of Dalkey island, my son and I saw a pod of five dolphins, including a baby. This is the second time we've seen them. We got very close when they swam between Dalkey island and Muglins island.
Wyn Beere, Kilternan, Co Dublin
Since last spring I've watched a lame rook with a drooping wing pecking on the green strip. On more than one occasion it has limped smartly across the busy road to the green area on the opposite side, looking right and left before crossing. An intelligent bird?
Tom Duddy, Co Galway