River Cladagh (Swanlinbar) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Cladagh River |
|
|---|---|
| Native name | An Chlaideach |
| Other name(s) | Swanlinbar River |
| Country | Republic of Ireland, United Kingdom |
| Province | Ulster |
| Region | Northern Ireland |
| Counties | Co. Cavan, Co. Fermanagh |
| Village | Swanlinbar |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Cuilcagh Mountain, Co. Cavan |
| River mouth | Upper Lough Erne, Co. Fermanagh |
The Cladagh River is also known as the Claddagh or Swanlinbar River. Its name, An Chlaideach, means "washing river" in Irish. This river starts from small streams on the side of Cuilcagh Mountain in County Cavan, Ireland.
It flows through the village of Swanlinbar. Then, it crosses the border into County Fermanagh in Northern Ireland. Finally, the Cladagh River flows into Upper Lough Erne. The water in the river is very clean at the start. As it flows, it slowly picks up more nutrients.
River Environment
The Cladagh River is a very special place for nature. It has been named a Special Area of Conservation. This means it is protected to help keep its unique plants and animals safe.
River Plants
The river is home to several types of water plants. These plants are important for the river's ecosystem. They provide food and shelter for many creatures. Some of the plants found here include different kinds of water buttercups.
Freshwater Pearl Mussels
The Cladagh River is very important for a special animal called the freshwater pearl mussel. This river has one of the biggest groups of these mussels in all of Northern Ireland. There are at least 10,000 mussels living here.
These mussels live in a part of the river that is about 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) long. This section of the river is very undisturbed. This helps the mussels to grow and thrive in a safe environment.
