Cliffs of Magho facts for kids
The Cliffs of Magho are a really long, steep rock face made of limestone. They stretch for about 9 kilometers (or 5.6 miles) in a place called Magho, in County Fermanagh, Northern Ireland. These cliffs face towards the north-northwest and look out over the western part of Lower Lough Erne. They also mark the northern edge of Lough Navar Forest, which is a big area of planted trees looked after by the Forest Service of Northern Ireland. There's a popular spot at the top of the cliffs where you can get amazing views, and you can reach it by driving through the forest.
Contents
What Are the Cliffs Made Of?
The Cliffs of Magho are made from different layers of rock that formed a very long time ago.
Layers of Limestone
The main part of the cliffs is made of two special types of limestone called the Glencar Limestone Formation and the Dartry Limestone Formation. The Dartry layer sits on top of the Glencar layer. These limestone layers are on top of another type of rock called the Benbulben Shale Formation, which is mostly made of mudrocks.
Rockfall and Debris
Right at the bottom of the cliffs, you'll find a lot of broken rocks and material that has fallen down over time. This is called scree or landslipped material, and it forms a continuous slope along the base of the cliffs.
Special Nature and Wildlife
The Cliffs of Magho are a very important natural area.
Protecting Nature
Because of their unique features and the special plants and animals that live there, the cliffs have been suggested as an Area of Special Scientific Interest. This means they are a place that needs to be protected for its natural importance.
Rare Moss
One very special plant found here is a black moss called the Irish Rock-bristle (Seligeria oelandica). This tiny moss grows on wet rocks that contain calcium carbonate (like limestone). It's super rare! In the entire United Kingdom, it's only found at the Cliffs of Magho. However, you can find it in other parts of the Republic of Ireland.
Part of a Global Geopark
Since 2007, the Cliffs of Magho have been part of something even bigger: the Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark. A Geopark is an area with special geological features that are important for science, education, and culture. Being part of this Geopark helps protect the cliffs and teaches people about their amazing natural history.
