Clondanagh has recently become an SAC (special area of conservation) with the Hen Harrier a recognized protected species. The ecology and biodiversity of the area makes Clare unique and special place.

In east Clare, the blanket bogs of Slieve Bearnagh and Slieve Aughty are the home of myriads of insects, and woodlands. The lower slopes are carpeted with bluebells and wood anemones. Most are fringed by wetlands and Lough Derg is home to rare fish such as the Pollan, one of Ireland’s most unique species.

Biodiversity is disappearing.

Rapid and extensive changes are currently occurring in habitats throughout the world, causing a serious decline in biodiversity. Species are becoming extinct as habitats are being destroyed. At least 11,000 species worldwide are known to be in danger of becoming extinct. In Europe, more than half the wetlands have been lost. In Ireland, less than 20% of our bogs remain intact, and about 12% of plants and 18% of vertebrates are endangered. In Clare species such as the Arctic Char, Corn Cockle, Cornflower and the Nightjar are now thought to be extinct. The main cause of the loss of biodiversity is human activity. Development, transport, agriculture, forestry, pollution, tourism, recreation and the introduction of alien species, all have a serious impact on our biodiversity. Although we need to work with biodiversity to live, we can learn to do this in a more sustainable way, thereby causing as little damage as possible.

Here at Clondanagh you can see many examples of the flaura and fauna we are trying to protect.