River Maine (County Kerry) facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Maine |
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River Maine near Currans
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| Native name | An Mhaing |
| Other name(s) | Mang |
| Country | Ireland |
| Cities | Castlemaine, Currans, Castleisland |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Tobermaing, County Kerry |
| River mouth | Atlantic Ocean via Castlemaine Harbour |
| Length | 42.6 kilometres (26.5 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| Basin size | 399 square kilometres (154 sq mi) |
| Tributaries |
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The River Maine (called An Mhaing in Irish) is a river found in County Kerry, Ireland. It flows for about 42.6 kilometers (26.5 miles) before reaching the sea. This river is important for the local area and its wildlife.
Contents
River Maine: Stories and History
The River Maine has many old stories connected to it.
Ancient Legends of the River
Long ago, people believed that three rivers "burst forth" in Ireland during the time of a king named Fíachu Labrainne. One of these was the Maine. This story is written in old Irish books like Lebor Gabála Érenn and the Annals of the Four Masters.
Another old poem, the Metrical Dindshenchas, tells a story about a brave warrior named Maine. He was the son of Medb and Ailill. The poem says that this famous Maine was killed near the mouth of the river.
What Does "Maine" Mean?
The name "Maine" might come from an old Irish word, mang. This word means a young deer or a fawn.
River as a Border
For a long time, the River Maine was a natural border. It divided an old kingdom called Desmond. South of the river, the Gaelic MacCarthys family ruled. North of the river, the Norman Earl of Desmond controlled the land.
The River's Journey
The River Maine starts its journey at a place called Tobermaing. It then flows towards the west.
Flowing Through Towns
The river passes through the town of Castleisland. It flows under the N23 highway. Soon after, it meets its biggest helper river, the Brown Flesk. The Maine continues its path through Currans and goes under the N22 highway.
Reaching the Sea
Finally, in Castlemaine, the river flows under the N70 road. It then goes past some old stones called the Ardcanaght Stones. After this, the River Maine flows into Castlemaine Harbour, which connects to the Atlantic Ocean.
Wildlife in the River Maine
The River Maine is a great place for many types of water animals.
Fish and Other Creatures
The river is well-known for its fish. Many people come here to fish for Atlantic salmon and sea trout. These fish are important for the river's ecosystem. Another interesting creature that lives in the river is the brook lamprey. This is a type of ancient, jawless fish.
