Dublin

Baldoyle Estuary Nature Reserve

Co. Dublin Location: A tidal bay situated north east of Dublin city.  Established 1988. State owned. Area (ha.): 203 Animals and Plants of Interest: Baldoyle is of international importance as a wintering area for Brent Geese. Wading birds that winter at Baldoyle include black-tailed Godwits, Redshanks and Curlews. When the tide comes in, fish enter the estuary and become prey for diving birds like the Great-crested Grebe and the Red-breasted Merganser.

North Bull Island Nature Reserves

Co. Dublin

Location: These two reserves are situated in the northern part of Dublin Bay within the boundaries of Dublin City and only 8km from the city centre.

Area (ha.): 118 Privately owned; 1,318 State owned.

Animals and Plants of Interest: The island is covered with dune grassland.  An extensive salt marsh lies to the northwest and at extreme low tides there are extensive mud flats between the island and the mainland. The reserves are of international scientific importance for Brent Geese and also on botanical, ornithological, zoological and geomorphological grounds.