Roe Estuary 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.
Location
Visitors can access this nature reserve by following the Carrowclare Road off the (B69) Seacoast Road, out of the town. Roe Estuary is around five miles north-west of Limavady.
Sights and sounds
The mud flats which are spotted here are often exposed at low tide. They appear to be dull and lifeless; however, they hide a secret. Hidden by the mud are a large number of small seashore animals such as lugworms, shrimps, ragworms and periwinkles.
There are also large beds of mussels and areas covered in a plant known as eel-grass. All of these are the food sources which attract many of the thousands of migrating waders, ducks, swans and geese that stop over on Lough Foyle each winter.
Inside the railway bridge is an area of salt marsh vegetation which is a habitat not commonly known locally. If visitors are lucky they will be able to watch the lapwings’ aerobatic display in early summer, or hear the cry of the curlew on a misty autumn morning. On a rare occasion, it may also be possible to catch a glimpse of an otter hunting crabs in the shallow pools.
Access is not restricted for visitors at this reserve. However, there is grazing cattle in the summertime and in winter this area provides a high water roost for waders and wildfowl. As a result of this, members of the public are advised not to bring their dogs on site. Car parking is available at the end of the public road. Visitors are also advised not to cross the railway line or bridge as this is not permitted.
Due to having no formal paths and soft mud on the shore, visitors are advised this can be dangerous.
Facilities
- Car park at end of public road
Further information
For further details contact Roe Valley Country Park Tel. 028 7772 1925.