Lough Gur Environmental Management Study February 2009

50
An open pool of water grades into Transition Fen The vegetation grades from Transition mire (left) to
Fen (right) at Red bog with reed and large sedge
swamp in the background
palustre) are occasional to frequent in this habitat. Species associated with transition mire, such as
lesser tussock sedge (Carex diandra) diminish in abundance within this habitat. This habitat has
links with a type listed in Annex I of the EU Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC).
Scrub (WS1)
Willow scrub is occasional throughout the habitat, especially along the fringes. Judging from aerial
photography, there appears to be an increase in willow cover in these transitional areas.
Wet grassland (GS4)
Wet grassland occurs around the edge where the ground is dryer and more stable. This is typically
species-rich and similar in species composition to the wet grassland habitat described earlier.
6.5 Habitat Evaluation
The site is designated as a proposed Natural Heritage Area and is therefore currently rated as
‘nationally important’ based on the criteria set out in Appendix 1. The site holds substantial areas of
Annex I habitat as defined under the European Habitats Directive (92/43/EEC). These habitats are
Transition mires and quaking bog (7140) and Alkaline fen (7230). The quantity and quality of the
Annexed habitats present warrant a review of the designation status of the site as a whole and
possible upgrade to Species Area of Conservation (International Importance).
6.6 Birds
Bird habitat
Lough Gur itself is a shallow, limestone lake with fringing emergent vegetation and a significant
wooded island. The Lake Bog area to the south-east, was formerly part of the main lake but, due to
artificial lowering in lake levels, it has been reduced to a few shallow pools surrounded by
reedswamp, fen and wet grassland. To the south of Lough Gur is Red Bog which comprises a
further extensive area of reedswamp, fen and wet grassland.
Lough Gur Environmental Management Study