River Mourne facts for kids
Quick facts for kids River Mourne |
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River Mourne at Victoria Bridge
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| Native name | An Mughdhorn |
| Country | Northern Ireland |
| Physical characteristics | |
| Main source | Northwest of Newtownstewart |
| River mouth | Lough Foyle |
| Length | 13 kilometres (8.1 mi) |
| Basin features | |
| River system | River Foyle |
The River Mourne (which is called An Mughdhorn in Irish) is a cool river found in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. It flows between the towns of Strabane and Newtownstewart. This river is a "tributary" of the bigger River Foyle. A tributary is like a smaller stream or river that flows into a larger one.
About the River Mourne
The River Mourne is quite important in its area. It's not just a waterway; it's also a home for many fish and a part of local history. The river is 13 kilometers (about 8 miles) long. It helps carry water from a large area into the sea.
Where the River Flows
The River Mourne begins when two other rivers, the River Derg and the River Strule, join together. This meeting point is located below a place called Ardstraw. As the River Mourne continues its journey, it reaches the town of Strabane. Here, it meets up with another river, the River Finn. When the Mourne and Finn rivers combine, they form the start of the River Foyle. The River Foyle then flows all the way to Lough Foyle.
Fish and Wildlife
The River Mourne is a great spot for fishing! People mostly fish here for salmon, which are big, strong fish. They also catch "grilse," which are young salmon, and sea trout. But there are many other types of fish living in different parts of the river too.
You might find fish like Common Roach, tiny Common Minnow, and even large Northern Pike. Other interesting creatures include the European Eel, Perch, and small Sticklebacks. It's like a busy underwater neighborhood!
Fun Facts and Culture
The River Mourne is even famous in music! There's a traditional folk song called "The Moorlough Shore." Sometimes it's also known as The Maid of Mourne Shore. This song talks about different names and places that are found along the river. It shows how important the river is to the local culture and stories.
