Magharee Islands facts for kids
Some of the Magharee Islands in 2004.
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| Geography | |
|---|---|
| Location | Atlantic Ocean |
| Total islands | 7 |
| Administration | |
| County | Kerry |
| Demographics | |
| Population | 0 |
The Magharee Islands (also known as "The Seven Hogs") are a group of seven islands in Ireland. They are found off the coast of County Kerry, near the northern tip of the Magharee Peninsula. These islands are not lived on by people. They are part of the area called Castlegregory.
The islands are very popular for fun water activities. Many people enjoy diving and snorkelling around them. A narrow stretch of water called the Magharees Sound separates the islands from the mainland. The closest place to land on the mainland is Scraggane Pier.
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Exploring the Islands
The Magharee Islands are a special place. They are known for their natural beauty and history. Even though no one lives there permanently, the islands are still used. Farmers bring their animals to graze there during the summer months.
The Seven Hogs: Island Names
There are seven main islands in the group. Each one has a unique name. Here are their names:
- Gurrig Island – Gorach
- Illaunboe – Oileán Bó
- Illaunimmil – Oileán Imill
- Illauntannig – Oileán tSeanaigh (This is the biggest island.)
- Illaunturlogh – Oileán Traolaigh
- Inishtooskert – Inis Tuaisceart
- Mucklaghbeg Island – An Mhuclach Bheag
Illauntannig: A Glimpse into the Past
Illauntannig is the largest of the Magharee Islands. It holds some interesting historical sites. You can find the remains of an old church there. There are also "beehive huts." These are ancient stone shelters built in a round, beehive shape. They were once part of a monastic site, which means a place where monks lived a long time ago.
Today, there is only one farmhouse on Illauntannig. You can even rent it out for holidays between April and September.
How Animals Cross to the Islands
The islands were lived on by people until the early 1980s. Now, they are mainly used for animals to eat grass in the summer. For a long time, farmers would get their cattle and sheep to the islands in a very old-fashioned way. They would swim the animals across the water at low tide. The farmers would row alongside them in small boats called Currachs.
If an animal had trouble swimming, it would be pulled into the boat or tied to it. Sometimes, if it was too difficult, the animal might drown. Luckily, things are much easier now! Farmers use a special cage with floating devices. This cage is pulled behind a boat, making the journey much safer and less tiring for the animals and their owners.
Images for kids
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Some of the Magharee Islands in 2004.
