Lough Forbes facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Lough Forbes |
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 Lough Forbes
Location in Ireland
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| Location | County Longford/County Roscommon, Ireland |
| Coordinates | 53°46′53″N 7°52′39″W / 53.781322°N 7.877494°W |
| Native name | Loch Foirbis Error {{native name checker}}: parameter value is malformed (help) |
| Primary inflows | River Shannon |
| Primary outflows | River Shannon |
| Basin countries | Ireland |
| Surface area | 3 km2 (1.2 sq mi) |
| Surface elevation | 40 m (130 ft) |
| Islands | Long Island, Sallow Island |
Lough Forbes (which is Loch Foirbis in Irish) is a beautiful lake in Ireland. It's located west of a town called Newtownforbes. This lake is not just any lake; it's also a very important place for nature, known as a Special Area of Conservation.
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Discovering Lough Forbes
Lough Forbes is a freshwater lake that covers about 3 square kilometers (which is about 1.2 square miles). It's part of the famous River Shannon system. The River Shannon flows into and out of Lough Forbes, making it a key part of Ireland's longest river.
Where is Lough Forbes Located?
This lake is special because it sits right on the border between two counties in Ireland: County Longford and County Roscommon. This means that parts of the lake are in one county, and other parts are in the other! It's found in the midlands of Ireland, a lovely green area.
What is a Special Area of Conservation?
Being a Special Area of Conservation (often called an SAC) means Lough Forbes is a protected natural site. These areas are chosen because they have rare or important habitats and species. The goal is to keep these places safe and healthy for the plants and animals that live there. For Lough Forbes, this protection helps to look after its unique wetlands and the wildlife that depends on them.
Wildlife in and around the Lake
Because Lough Forbes is an SAC, it's home to many different kinds of wildlife. The lake and its surrounding areas provide a safe place for various plants, birds, and other animals. You might find different types of fish in the water, and many bird species use the lake for feeding and nesting. The wetlands around the lake are especially important for unique plants and insects. Protecting this area helps these creatures to thrive.
Islands of Lough Forbes
Lough Forbes has a few small islands within it. Two of the notable ones are Long Island and Sallow Island. These islands add to the lake's natural beauty and can provide quiet spots for wildlife, away from the mainland.
