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Scramogue Bog Natural Heritage Area adventures

Scramogue Bog Natural Heritage Area Adventures

Scramogue Bog Natural Heritage Area is a protected peatland ecosystem known for its rich biodiversity and conservation importance, offering a unique glimpse into Ireland's natural bog habitats.

Approximately 1,000 acres
Acres Protected
Limited informal paths; no formal trails
Miles of Trails
Low to moderate, mostly local and specialist visitors
Annual Visitors
Designation in 1995
Year Established

About Scramogue Bog Natural Heritage Area

 

Scramogue Bog Natural Heritage Area is a significant peatland located in County Roscommon, Ireland. It represents one of the classic raised bog landscapes characteristic of Ireland’s midlands, featuring a mosaic of habitats including intact bog domes, cutover peatlands, and wet woodland fringes. The bog supports a wide variety of plant and animal life, including unique mosses, insectivorous plants, and a range of bird species such as curlew and meadow pipit. Its preservation is vital due to the peatland’s role in carbon sequestration and its status as a rare habitat in Europe. The area offers a tranquil natural setting for visitors interested in botany, birdwatching, and ecological study. Though recreational infrastructure is minimal, the site attracts naturalists and conservationists eager to explore its delicate ecosystem. Historically, peat bogs like Scramogue have been important for local fuel harvesting, but this area is now protected to conserve its ecological integrity. Visitors often experience the vastness of the peatland, spotting rarities such as sundews and seeing the characteristic hummock-and-hollow terrain. The area also contributes to Ireland’s wider network of peatland conservation efforts, helping to preserve biodiversity and combat climate change. While there are no formal trails or visitor facilities, the NHA designation ensures ongoing protection and monitoring. Visitors are advised to respect the fragile environment to support ongoing conservation goals and safeguard this valuable natural heritage.

Highlights

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Expansive raised bog dome with classic hummock-and-hollow structures

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Rare sphagnum moss species and insectivorous bog plants such as sundews

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Important habitat for breeding wading birds including the curlew

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A prime example of Ireland’s natural peatland ecosystem with minimal disturbance

Notable Natural Features

Raised Bog Dome

The central elevated peat accumulation characteristic of intact bog habitats, supporting specialized plant communities.

Sundews and Carnivorous Plants

Unique insect-eating plants adapted to nutrient-poor peat conditions, visually striking and ecologically important.

Curlew Habitat

Critical breeding grounds for the endangered curlew, one of Ireland's most threatened bird species.