Redwood Bog facts for kids

Redwood Bog is a special natural area in County Tipperary, Ireland. It's a type of wetland called a raised bog, which is like a big, squishy sponge made of plants. This amazing place covers about 326 acres (1.32 square kilometers) and is protected by the government.

What Makes Redwood Bog Special?

Redwood Bog became a national nature reserve in 1991. This means the Irish government legally protects it. It's also a Special Area of Conservation. This is a European title given to places that are very important for nature. These protections help keep the bog safe for all its unique plants and animals.

Location and History

This bog used to be owned by Bord na Móna. This company bought the bog specifically to protect it, which is pretty cool! Redwood Bog sits right on the edge of the Little Brosna River flood plain. This is where the river meets the mighty River Shannon.

The area is part of the Little Brosna Callows. It's known around the world as a great example of a flood plain ecosystem. This means it's a natural area that gets flooded sometimes. It's also a very important home for wild birds.

Unique Features of the Bog

Redwood Bog has the last mostly whole "bog dome" in this flood plain area. A bog dome is a raised, rounded part of the bog. It's like a natural hill made of peat and plants. There's also a dried-out part of another dome and an area called a "fen." Fens are wetlands that get water from groundwater, not just rain.

The main bog dome is full of plants that love raised bogs. In the middle, you can find "quaking areas." These are spots where the ground feels bouncy and wobbly when you walk on it. There are also many "bog pools," which are small, natural ponds within the bog.

Bog Habitats and Plants

The reserve has different types of bog habitats. You can see "Sphagnum moss lawns," which are like carpets of soft moss. There are also "wet flats," "pools," and "hummocks." Hummocks are small mounds of plants that rise above the wet ground. "Soaks" and "flushes" are wet areas where water flows through.

Some parts of the bog have been changed by people cutting "turf." Turf is dried peat, used as fuel. Drainage also affected some areas. But experts believe these parts can grow back and become healthy again.

Amazing Wildlife

Redwood Bog is home to many interesting plants. You might spot "white beak-sedge" and "brown beak-sedge." There's also "bog asphodel," which has bright yellow flowers. Look closely for "sundews," which are tiny carnivorous plants that catch insects! Other plants include "deergrass" and "carnation sedge."

Birds love Redwood Bog too! The "Greenland white-fronted goose" has been seen visiting the reserve. This makes the bog an important stop for these geese on their long journeys.