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Nature reserves in Northern Ireland facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

Nature reserves in Northern Ireland are very special places. They are protected areas where nature can grow and animals can live safely. The Northern Ireland Environment Agency looks after these important sites.

There are 47 national nature reserves across Northern Ireland. These places help protect different kinds of habitats. They keep plants and animals safe for everyone to enjoy.

What is a Nature Reserve?

A nature reserve is like a safe home for wildlife. It is a place where plants, animals, and their natural surroundings are protected. This helps to keep rare species from disappearing. It also lets people learn about nature.

These reserves are important for many reasons. They help keep our environment healthy. They also offer great places for people to visit. You can often go for walks and see amazing wildlife.

Nature Reserves by County

County Antrim

County Antrim has many beautiful nature reserves. These places protect different landscapes. You can find everything from forests to coastal areas here.

  • Belshaw's Quarry Nature Reserve, grid ref: J229 671
  • Breen Oakwood Nature Reserve, grid ref: D125 338
  • Giant's Causeway National Nature Reserve, grid ref: C954 453
  • Glenariff Nature Reserve, grid ref: D210 205
  • Kebble Nature Reserve, grid ref: D095 515
  • Portrush Nature Reserve, grid ref: C856 412
  • Randalstown Forest Nature Reserve, grid ref: J088 872
  • Rea's Wood Nature Reserve, grid ref: J142 855
  • Slieveanorra Nature Reserve, grid refs: D132 265, D135 265, D147 274 and D155 286.
  • Straidkilly Nature Reserve, grid ref: D302 163

County Armagh

County Armagh is home to some important nature reserves. These sites help protect wetlands and other unique habitats. They are great for birdwatching and exploring.

County Down

County Down has a diverse range of nature reserves. You can find coastal areas, forests, and fens. These places are vital for many different species.

  • Ballyquintin National Nature Reserve, grid ref: J621 458
  • Bohill Nature Reserve, grid ref: J396 459
  • Cloghy Rocks Nature Reserve, grid ref: J594 478
  • The Dorn Nature Reserve, grid ref: J593 568
  • Granagh Bay Nature Reserve, grid ref: J606 485
  • Hollymount Forest National Nature Reserve, grid ref: J464 438
  • Killard Nature Reserve, grid ref: J610 433
  • Murlough National Nature Reserve, grid ref: J414 351
  • North Strangford Lough National Nature Reserve, grid ref: J508 706
  • Quoile Pondage Nature Reserve, grid ref: J49647
  • Rostrevor Oakwood Nature Reserve, grid ref: J186 170
  • Turmennan Fen Nature Reserve, grid ref: J485 503

County Fermanagh

County Fermanagh is known for its lakes and woodlands. Its nature reserves protect these beautiful water and forest environments. They are often home to rare plants and animals.

  • Castle Archdale Islands Nature Reserve
  • Castle Caldwell Nature Reserve, grid ref: H020 600
  • Correl Glen Nature Reserve, grid ref: H075 545
  • Hanging Rock and Rossaa Forest Nature Reserve, grid ref: H110 365
  • Killykeeghan and Crossmurrin Nature Reserve, grid ref: H112 348
  • Lough Naman Bog Nature Reserve, grid ref: H075 545
  • Marble Arch Nature Reserve, grid ref: H123 350
  • Reilly and Gole Woods Nature Reserve grid refs: H340 254 (Reilly) and H336 250 (Gole)
  • Ross Lough Nature Reserve, grid ref: H143 467

County Londonderry

County Londonderry features reserves along its coast and inland. These areas protect important bird habitats and unique geological sites. They are great for exploring different natural landscapes.

County Tyrone

County Tyrone's nature reserves often protect bogs and woodlands. These habitats are important for many types of plants and insects. They also provide homes for various birds and small animals.

  • Annagarriff Nature Reserve, grid ref: H905 6610
  • Boorin Nature Reserve, grid ref: H495 846
  • Brookend Nature Reserve, grid ref: H948 725
  • Killeter Nature Reserve, grid refs: H090 808 and H086 821
  • Meenadoan Nature Reserve, grid ref: H244 718
  • Mullenakill, grid ref: H893 610
  • The Murrins Nature Reserve, grid ref: H565 783
  • Lough Neagh Islands Nature Reserve
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