Coolacurragh Wood facts for kids

Coolacurragh Wood is a special place in County Laois, Ireland. It is a national nature reserve, which means it is a protected area. This beautiful woodland covers about 21 acres (or 0.085 square kilometers). The Irish National Parks & Wildlife Service takes care of it. They make sure the plants and animals living there are safe.

What Makes Coolacurragh Wood Special?

Coolacurragh Wood became a protected national nature reserve in 1982. This was done by the Irish government to keep its natural beauty safe. It is very close to another important nature spot called Grantstown Wood and Grantstown Lough.

A Wet and Wonderful Woodland

This wood is known as a wet woodland. This means the ground is often damp, which helps certain plants grow well. The soil here is very rich, full of nutrients.

Trees and Plants You'll Find

The main trees in Coolacurragh Wood are ash, alder, and birch. These trees love the wet conditions. Below them, you can find many smaller plants. Look out for hawthorn bushes, meadowsweet flowers, nettles, and brambles. These plants create a thick, green undergrowth.

Wildlife in the Reserve

Coolacurragh Wood is a great home for many animals. It has a lake that is full of fish. This lake is a perfect hunting ground for some amazing creatures.

Animals That Live Here

• Otters: These playful animals love to swim and catch fish in the lake.
• Kingfishers: You might spot these birds with their bright blue and orange feathers. They dive quickly into the water to catch fish.
• Cormorants: These large, dark birds are excellent swimmers. They dive deep to find their meals in the lake.

Coolacurragh Wood is a fantastic example of Ireland's natural heritage. It shows how important it is to protect these special places for everyone to enjoy.