Some of Ireland’s rare and threatened wildlife species can be found at Lough Boora Discovery Park due to active rehabilitation and nature conservation. Some examples include Blue Fleabane and Alder Buckthorn, plant species considered to have a threatened status in Ireland.
The Dingy Skipper butterfly is another species that is relatively common in Lough Boora where there is suitable pioneer grassland habitat, but also has a threatened status in Ireland. The development of pioneer calcareous grassland where underlying glacial material has been exposed with its food-plant, Birdsfoot, is perfect for this species. Ground-nesting waders such as Lapwing and Redshank and songbirds such as Meadow Pipit and Skylark are now restricted in distribution in Ireland but make their home in Lough Boora. There is a wide range of other species of significant conservation value such as the White-clawed Crawfish and Hen Harrier, which can be found in the park.
The park’s amenities have become a haven for nature, with flora and both resident and migrant wildlife frequenting the lakes, wetlands, grasslands and woodlands. This enhanced programme of biodiversity has become closely linked to the after-use and rehabilitation of cutaway bogs.
Lough Boora is recognised as a key feature in the Offaly County Development Plan and includes:
- amenity and biodiversity;
- wetlands;
- a nationally and internationally recognised outdoor Sculpture Park; and
- a nationally important area for the last remaining population of Grey Partridge in Ireland.
Lough Boora Discovery Park is continually evolving and with the establishment of a Cycle Path and continuation of long-term bird surveys by Bird Watch Ireland to monitor use of the areas by species such a the Whooper Swan, Lapwing and a range of wetland birds.
Please remember to respect the nature and conservation value of Lough Boora Discovery Park.
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