Croaghaun facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Croaghaun |
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 688 m (2,257 ft) |
| Prominence | 688 m (2,257 ft) |
| Parent peak | None |
| Listing | P600, Marilyn, Hewitt |
| Naming | |
| English translation | little stack |
| Language of name | Irish |
| Geography | |
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| Location | Mayo, Republic of Ireland |
| Parent range | Achill Island |
| OSI/OSNI grid | F553060 |
Croaghaun (which means Cruachán in Irish) is a tall mountain located in County Mayo, Ireland. It stands 688 metres (about 2,257 feet) high. What makes Croaghaun special are its amazing sea cliffs. These cliffs are the highest in all of Ireland! They are also the third highest sea cliffs in Europe, after Hornelen in Norway and Cape Enniberg in the Faroe Islands.
Exploring Croaghaun's Geography
Croaghaun is the most western peak on Achill Island. It is also the highest mountain on the island. The giant cliffs of Croaghaun are found on the northern side of the mountain. You can only see these cliffs by hiking to the top or by seeing them from the sea.
These cliffs are part of a long line of steep rock faces. They start south of Keem Bay and curve around the wild, uninhabited northwest part of the island. They go past Achill Head and Saddle Head, and then east towards Slievemore. Sometimes, these huge rock walls drop straight down into the cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Wildlife and Nature at Croaghaun
The Croaghaun cliffs are a fantastic place for nature lovers. They are home to two families of peregrine falcons. These birds are known as the fastest creatures on Earth! The best time to see them is in September and October. This is when the young falcons are learning how to fly.
You can also find beautiful, sparkling quartz rocks here. The area is also home to special Mediterranean heathers, which are plants that grow in warmer climates. The waters of the Atlantic Ocean around Croaghaun are full of life. It's common to spot groups of bottlenose dolphins swimming. You might also see basking sharks, which are huge but gentle sharks. In the past, these sharks were important for the people of Achill Island.
Many Porpoises also live in these waters. Sometimes, even bigger sea creatures like Killer whales, humpback whales, and other types of whales have been seen near Croaghaun. It's a truly wild and wonderful place to explore!
