Montiaghs Moss is a cutover lowland raised bog, consisting of an intricate mosaic of peat ramparts, trenches, pools and drains, interspersed with grassland, alder and willow carr and tall hedgerows. These habitats support a wide range of plants and animals, including many rarities.
The area is particularly notable as one of the longest established colonies of the Marsh Fritillary butterfly in NI. The species was first recorded in 1983 and has been recorded annually since 1990 (except for 1997).
It is believed that the colony here represents a metapopulation, with a comparatively large core permanent population. 89 webs were counted in 1999.
Related articles
- ASSI Guidance for Public Bodies/Competent Authorities
- Coastal Areas of Special Scientific Interest
- Conservation Management Plans (CMPs)
- European Marine Sites - Marine Special Areas of Conservation and Special Protection Areas
- Introduction to Conservation Management Plans (CMPs) for Northern Ireland’s Special Areas of Conservation
- Marine Conservation Zones
- Marine Protected Areas
- Marine Ramsar sites
- Portrush Coastal Zone
- Special Areas of Conservation
- Special Areas of Conservation for Harbour porpoise
- Special Protection Areas