Derrycrag Wood Nature Reserve facts for kids

Derrycrag Wood Nature Reserve is a special place in County Galway, Ireland. It's a national nature reserve, which means it's protected by the government. It's also a "Special Area of Conservation" because of its unique nature. This reserve covers about 273 acres (or 1.1 square kilometers). The National Parks & Wildlife Service in Ireland takes care of it.

What Makes Derrycrag Wood Special?

Derrycrag Wood became a protected national nature reserve in 1983. This means the Irish government decided to keep it safe for nature. It's also a "Special Area of Conservation" because it has very old and important sessile oak woodlands. These types of forests are rare and need extra protection.

Ancient Forests and Plants

Derrycrag Wood, along with Pollnaknockaun and Rosturra Wood, are like small pieces of much bigger forests. Hundreds of years ago, huge oak and ash forests covered this area. Today, Derrycrag Wood helps us see what those ancient woodlands were like.

Underneath the tall oak and ash trees, you can find other plants. There's a lot of hazel and holly, plus many other types of woodland plants. A rare shrub called bird cherry also grows here, especially along the banks of the Woodford River.

Amazing Animals

This nature reserve is home to many different animals. If you visit, you might spot some cool creatures! Some of the animals that live here include:

• Red squirrels
• Foxes
• Badgers
• Pine martens
• Bats
• Sparrowhawks
• Jays
• Kestrels

Exploring the Reserve

If you want to explore Derrycrag Wood, there are two walking trails. These trails let you discover the beauty of the forest and maybe even spot some of the wildlife. It's a great place to learn about nature and enjoy the outdoors.