Oxford Island National Nature Reserve
Nature reserves are chosen from among the very best examples of our wildlife, habitats and geology. They contain a wide range of species, communities and geology and their designation is a public recognition by Government of their importance.
Designation
Grid Reference: J 053616
Description
Oxford Island is a peninsula on the south-east shore of Lough Neagh. The nature reserve supports a wide range of habitats including wet meadows, reedbeds, woodlands and shoreline scrub, all of which are typical of the lake shore.
Sheltered bays provide a refuge for large numbers of wintering wildfowl, especially diving ducks that can be easily seen from birdwatching hides overlooking the lough. Whooper and Bewick's swans can usually be found grazing on neighbouring fields. Five miles of footpath pass through these grasslands and also take you to woodlands, ponds and the lough shore. Displaying Great-Crested Grebes, duckling broods and many other wetland birds can be easily seen in the spring and summer while the natural grasslands of Kinnegoe meadows are alive with the colour of flowers and butterflies.
The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre tells the story of the lough's history and wildlife through audio-visual presentations, computers and interactive games. These have been designed to challenge and inform visitors on aspects of the lough's ecology and management in an entertaining way.
Facilities
Interpretive Centre, Loughside cafe, craft centre and shop, footpaths and bird-watching hides. Guided events throughout the year, environmental education activities and interpretive leaflets.
Contact Lough Neagh Discovery Centre Tel: 028 3832 2205.