Sheskinmore Lough

BirdWatch Ireland

Sheskinmore Lough is a stunning nature reserve located within a large, shallow freshwater coastal lagoon, surrounded by beautiful machair grasslands. This area is rich in wildflowers, insects, and birds, and is designated as a Special Protection Area and Special Area of Conservation. Managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, it plays a crucial role in supporting wintering Greenland White-fronted Geese, Choughs in autumn, and breeding Lapwings during the summer months, alongside various declining plant and insect species. Visitors can enjoy year-round access to the reserve, with notable wildlife sightings including the 22-spot Ladybird, which peaks in July around 01:00. The winter months are particularly rewarding for birdwatchers, as the Greenland White-fronted Geese arrive in October and remain until early April, feeding on the grasslands. Observers should be attentive to the orange bills of these geese, indicating their Greenland race, and can take advantage of marked walking trails and an observation hide for optimal viewing.

Managed by

BirdWatch Ireland

Location

RG6M+C2 Mullavea, County Donegal, Ireland