Lough Cutra facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lough Cutra |
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Lough Cutra and Parsons Island
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 Lough Cutra
Location in Ireland
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| Location | County Galway, Ireland |
| Coordinates | 53°02′06″N 8°46′53″W / 53.035059°N 8.781464°W |
| Native name | Loch Cútra Error {{native name checker}}: parameter value is malformed (help) |
| Primary inflows | Owendalulleegh River |
| Primary outflows | Beagh River |
| Basin countries | Ireland |
| Surface area | 3.9 km2 (1.5 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 35 m (115 ft) |
| Islands | Castle Island, Beagh Island, Rick's Island, Hawthorn Island, Holly Island, Keaghery Island, Apple Island, Swan Island |
Lough Cutra (which means Loch Cútra in Irish) is a beautiful lake located in County Galway, Ireland. It's a very special place, known for its natural beauty and important wildlife.
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What is Lough Cutra?
Lough Cutra is a freshwater lake in the west of Ireland. It's a popular spot for nature lovers and those who enjoy the outdoors. The lake is quite large, covering an area of about 3.9 square kilometers (about 1.5 square miles).
Where is Lough Cutra Located?
This lovely lake is found in County Galway, which is in the western part of Ireland. It sits about 35 meters (115 feet) above sea level. The area around the lake is mostly rural, with green fields and rolling hills.
A Special Place for Nature
Lough Cutra is not just any lake; it's officially recognized as a Special Area of Conservation. This means the area is protected because it has important natural habitats and wildlife. Governments protect these areas to make sure plants and animals can thrive.
Many different kinds of plants and animals call Lough Cutra home. This protection helps keep the lake and its surroundings healthy for future generations. It's like a nature reserve where special care is taken to preserve the environment.
Islands of Lough Cutra
Lough Cutra has several islands scattered across its waters. These islands add to the lake's scenic beauty. Some of the islands have interesting names, such as Castle Island, Beagh Island, and Swan Island. Each island might have its own unique plants or small creatures living there.
Rivers Flowing In and Out
Lakes often have rivers that flow into them and rivers that flow out. For Lough Cutra, the main river that flows into it is the Owendalulleegh River. This river brings fresh water into the lake. The water then flows out of Lough Cutra through the Beagh River. This constant flow helps keep the lake's water fresh and clean.
Nearby History: Ardamullivan Castle
Just a short distance from Lough Cutra, about 2 kilometers (1 mile) to the southwest, stands Ardamullivan Castle. This historic castle is a reminder of Ireland's past. Castles like Ardamullivan were built many centuries ago, often for defense or as homes for important families.
Exploring the area around Lough Cutra means you can enjoy both natural beauty and a glimpse into history. It's a great place to visit if you're interested in nature, history, or just want to enjoy a peaceful setting.
