Scragh Bog Nature Reserve - Conservation of Beauty and Wildlife

Widely known as the Lakeland of Ireland, Westmeath is home to one of the few remaining acidic raised bogs in Europe. Scragh Bog Nature Reserve located close to the picturesque setting of Lough Owel is possibly the best illustration in Ireland of the transition from alkaline fen to acidic raised bog. It covers an area almost 23 acres and is of international importance.

Rich Flora & Fauna at Scragh Bog

9,000 years ago after the last Ice age, fen-fringed lakes were a common feature throughout the midlands of Ireland however most of these lakes disappeared under moss and heather as part of a natural progression from lake to raised bog. However Scragh bog’s transition has been much more gradual. Here you’ll come across a large number of uncommon plants and insects which are rare in Europe. Bird Watching is very popular here with Skylark and Common Snipe among other breeds observed. Plants include Sphagnum Moss, Sundew and the notable species Round-leaved Wintergreen. Scragh bog offers the opportunity to study the fascinating transition from fen to bog and to observe the plants and animals which depend on this special habitat.

A special wooden boardwalk has recently been constructed through the wooded area of the bog for visitors. There is also a walkway alongside its southern side that leads to a raised viewing platform where the entire bog can be viewed.

Westmeath Accommodation

Posted: 18 Feb 2015 by Niall McKee | with 1 comments

Tags: Midlands, Nature, Westmeath