Lough Barra Bog facts for kids

Lough Barra Bog is a very special natural area in County Donegal, Ireland. It is a type of wetland called a blanket bog. This bog is also recognized as a Ramsar site, which means it's an important wetland for the whole world. It covers about 436 acres (1.76 square kilometers) and is protected as a national nature reserve.

What is Lough Barra Bog?

Lough Barra Bog is a large area of wet, spongy land. It's called a "blanket bog" because it covers the landscape like a blanket, even over hills. This type of bog forms in places with lots of rain and cool temperatures.

A Special Place for Nature

This bog is located in the upper part of the Gweebarra river valley. It sits right next to the southern edge of Glenveagh National Park. This makes it part of a huge natural area.

Home to Amazing Birds

Lough Barra Bog is a home for many different animals. It's especially important for birds. Three bird species that are protected by European laws live here. These include the Greenland white-fronted Goose, the merlin, and the golden plover. These birds rely on the bog for food and a safe place to live.

Unique Plants and Water

The bog has many interesting features. You can find small wet areas called "flushes" and tiny pools of water. There are also some native deciduous trees, mostly a type of oak called Quercus petraea. These trees add to the bog's natural beauty.

Why is it Protected?

Lough Barra Bog was officially protected by the Irish government in 1987. This means it's a "national nature reserve." In the same year, it was also named a Ramsar site. Being a Ramsar site means it's recognized internationally as a very important wetland.

Protecting Lough Barra Bog helps keep its unique plants and animals safe. It also helps to preserve this special type of landscape. Next to Lough Barra Bog is another protected area called Meenachullion Bog. Together, they form one of the largest and most untouched lowland blanket bogs in northwest Ireland.