Comhairle Ceantair an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022 Cover Images: Main image – Dundrum Bay @ Tourism NI Red squirrel @ DAERA Red kite @ Ben Hall

Contents Page Image: Marsh fritillary butterfly @ Stephen Craig

2 Foreword 5

Introduction 6

Threats to Biodiversity 7

Biodiversity: It’s Our Duty 8 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan 9

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area 10 Priority Habitats and Species in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area 11 Habitats Across Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area 12 Local Action for Species 36

Do Your Bit for Biodiversity 41

Finding Out More About Biodiversity 44

Where to Report Wildlife Crime and Pollution 44 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018 - 2022 45

Partner Abbreviations and Glossary 47

3 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Irish hare @ Ronald Surgenor 4 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Réamhrá / Foreword

Mar Chathaoirleach Chomhairle Ceantair an Iúir, As Chairman Mhúrn agus an Dúin, is mór an pléisiúr domh of Newry, Plean Gníomhaíochta Chomhairle Ceantair an Iúir, Mourne and Mhúrn agus an Dúin um Bithéagsúlacht Áitiúil a Down District chur faoi bhur mbráid (PGBA). Tógfaidh an Plean Council, I have seo ar an bhunobair a bhí curtha le chéile i great pleasure in bPleananna Gníomhaíochta Áitiúla an dá introducing the Chomhairlí a bhí ann roimhe. Tabharfaidh an Newry, Mourne and Plean seo treoir do chaomhnú agus Down Local d’fheabhsúchán na bithéagsúlachta fud fad an Biodiversity Action Plan Cheantair. (LBAP). This plan will build on the foundations laid down in Is réigiún ardscéimhe i dtuaisceart na hÉireann é, the Local Biodiversity Action Plans developed in Ceantar an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin, a bhfuil clú former years by the legacy Councils and will guide agus cáil air as a shléibhte maorga, a thránna the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity gainmheacha, a pháirceanna foraoise, agus a across the district. lochanna farraige a bhfuil tábhacht eiceolaíoch ag baint leo, a leithéid de, Loch Cairlinn agus Loch Newry, Mourne and Down district is a beautiful, Cuan. Is áiteanna tábhachtacha iad ó thaobh scenic region of Northern Ireland, well known for its turasóireachta de cé go bhfuil an chuid is mó den stunning mountains, sandy beaches, forest parks talamh ina dtailte feirme, atá ríthábhachtach and the ecologically important sea loughs of chun slite beatha áitiúla a chothú. Tá an dúiche Carlingford and Strangford. These areas are seo fíorthábhachtach ó thaobh bithéagsúlachta. important for tourism and, with a large proportion Gach uile bhliain feictear radharcanna áille dena of the land being farmland, are vitally important for cadhain bolgfhionn ar féarach, ar chladaigh na sustaining local livelihoods. Our district is also lochanna. Chomh maith leis sin bíonn fiadhúlra extremely important in terms of its biodiversity. eile le feiceáil, ina measc, cúir rua ag Every year we are treated to the wonderful sight of faoileaoireacht go hard os ár gcionn, bumbóga i internationally important populations of light- mbun phailniú na mbláthanna, agus na h-ioraí rua bellied Brent geese grazing on the shores of our ag crúbadach sna crainn ar an Tulaigh Mhór agus loughs. Other wildlife highlights include red kites ar Shliabh gCuillinn gan ach roinnt bheag a lua. soaring overhead, bumblebees busily pollinating plants, and red squirrels clambering up trees at Tá Comhairle Ceantair an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin Tollymore and Slieve Gullion Forest Parks, to name tiomanta don timpeallacht nádúrtha a chosaint a few. agus an fiadhúlra atá ag brath uirthi. Le bheith rathúil áfach, tá muid ag brath ar thacaíocht Newry, Mourne and Down District Council is leanúnach an phobail áitiúil sa dóigh is go mbeidh committed to protecting our natural environment orainn comhoibriú le chéile chun ár n-oidhreacht and the wildlife that depends on it. To be saibhir, nádúrtha a chaomhnú do na glúnta atá le successful, however, we need the continual support teacht. Mar sin de, iarraim ort, a dhaoine uaisle of local people so that we can work together to Cheantair an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin tacú leis an conserve our rich natural heritage for future Phlean Gníomhaíochta um Bíthéagsúlacht Áitiúil generations. Therefore, I ask you, the people of an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin agus a bheith Newry, Mourne and Down district, to support your páirteach gníomhach i gcosaint na Local Biodiversity Action Plan and become actively bithéagsúlachta iontach atá ar leac an dorais involved in protecting the amazing biodiversity that s'againne. we are so fortunate to have.

An Comhairleoir Marcas Ó Murnáin Councillor Mark Murnin Cathaoirleach Chairman Comhairle Ceantair an Iúir, Mhúrn agus an Dúin Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

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Introduction

What is Biodiversity? Why is it Important? The biodiversity we Biodiversity is the short term Biodiversity is a key measure of see today is the result used for 'biological diversity', the health of our planet and which is 'the total variety of all therefore vital for our survival. of millions of years of living plants and animals, and It provides us with the evolution, shaped by the habitats in which they live'. essential ingredients without natural processes which we could not live, such The biodiversity we see today is as the oxygen we breathe, and, increasingly, by the result of millions of years water we drink, and food that the influence of of evolution, shaped by natural we eat, as well as adding processes and, increasingly, by beauty and variety to our humans. the influence of humans. It is surroundings. found all around us, in our fields, gardens, lakes, mountains, parks, rivers and woodlands. Biodiversity adds character and distinctiveness to an area.

The Newry, Mourne and Down area has a rich and distinctive variety of habitats from the Mountains of Mourne and Murlough Beach, to the fens of Lecale and the Ring of Gullion. Indeed, this natural beauty has helped to shape our culture and inspire our artists, writers and composers.

6 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2017-2022 Threats to Biodiversity Many habitats and species across Northern Ireland are in decline. Some of these declines can be attributed to global causes while others have more local origins. Legislation and policy guidance is attempting to close the gap on these but of course implementation, monitoring and enforcement are key.

Habitat Loss and Non-native Invasive Pollution Fragmentation Species, Pests and Pollution is the introduction of Habitat loss is the greatest Diseases contaminants into the natural threat to biodiversity worldwide environment that cause Non-native invasive species are adverse change. It can take the either from damage, drainage, the second biggest threat to development, inappropriate form of chemicals biodiversity after habitat loss. contaminating our water, litter, management or fragmentation. Human activity is the main For example, over 90% of or sewage into our seas. cause of the introduction and Pollution still remains a serious species rich grasslands or spread of invasive species meadows were lost over a 50 problem for our environment through accidental and and for biodiversity as it can kill year period in the United deliberate releases, stowaways Kingdom as farming intensified species (fish kills in rivers and in imported goods or escapees lakes, wildflowers and hedges post war and hay production from gardens and large estates. changed to silage. This has sprayed with weed killer) and destroy habitat over time. resulted in the decline of many As invasive species tend to be species dependant on highly adaptable and strong meadows, such as the Irish competitors, they can out- Climate Change hare, native butterflies and compete native species for food Climate change is having moths and the complete loss of and space. Key invasive species significant impacts on both the the corncrake from many areas. already affecting our area distribution of species and include Japanese knotweed, habitats in our area and their Himalayan balsam, giant ability to function as hogweed and grey squirrel, with ecosystems. For example, potentially many more on the species that exist only within horizon. certain ranges or temperatures could be pushed northwards and to higher altitudes, restricting their natural range and compromising their future. It is important to protect and maintain healthy ecosystems as we rely on efficient water regulating by bog lands and woodlands in our river catchments to reduce flooding.

Great spotted woodpecker @ Nigel Snell Ecosystem services @ www.greatecology.com Grey squirrel @Breffni Martin

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Biodiversity: It’s Our Duty

In 2011, the Wildlife and Natural Environment Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 (WANE)1 came into force, replacing the Wildlife Order (Northern Ireland) 1985. This legislation is the primary tool for the conservation and protection of Northern Ireland’s threatened or endangered wildlife. While the WANE Act has introduced new species to protected lists, tightened controls on invasive species and increased penalties for wildlife crime, a significant change for councils was the introduction of a new Biodiversity Duty for all public bodies.

Why is the Duty What is Involved? “It is the duty of Required? In essence, the aim of the Duty every public body, in To halt the loss of biodiversity; is to raise the profile and exercising any European, national and regional visibility of biodiversity and to targets have been set. The make it an integral part of functions, to further European Union (EU) vision is policy and decision making. the conservation of for better protection of When undertaking their biodiversity by 2050. The target functions, public bodies have to biodiversity so far as set by Northern Ireland, in the take into account the following is consistent with the Northern Ireland Biodiversity five areas: proper exercise of Strategy, is to significantly • Enhancing biodiversity reduce overall biodiversity loss. • Promoting the those functions.” The Biodiversity Duty is understanding of considered a key measure to biodiversity both within Wildlife and Natural Environment contribute to these targets. and outside the Act (Northern Ireland) 2011 Council action on adopting organisation Biodiversity Implementation • Restoring biodiversity Plans (BIPs) that focus on • Maintaining internal council actions and biodiversity coordinating Local Biodiversity • Protecting Action Plans, is agreed as an biodiversity. appropriate way to help meet this duty.

Girl exploring @ Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership

Light-bellied Brent Goose @ Breffni Martin

8 1 http://www.legislation.gov.uk/nia/2011/15/contents Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Local Biodiversity Action Plan

The publication of a Local Biodiversity Action Plan (LBAP) is the result of a number of international, national and local processes. It all began in 1992, which saw the gathering of world leaders from over 150 countries at the Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit. This agreement led to the United Kingdom committing to produce an action plan to sustain and conserve biodiversity. In 1995, the United Kingdom Biodiversity Strategy was developed, followed by the Northern Ireland Biodiversity Strategy in 2002.

The Northern Ireland action for local wildlife. They Down District Council areas. Biodiversity Strategy has since also link with, and help deliver, Protecting the environment has been reviewed in 2015. ‘Valuing other plans within an area, remained high on the new Nature - A Biodiversity Strategy such as Council Corporate Council agenda and this is for Northern Ireland to 2020’ Plans, Tourism Area Plans and reflected in it’s mission in the sets out plans on how AONB (Area of Outstanding Corporate Plan 2015-2019. The international obligations will be Natural Beauty) Management Plan states, “Our mission as a met and identifies local targets and Action Plans. The LBAP Council is to lead and serve a to protect biodiversity, ensuring process as it has become district that is prosperous, that the environment can known, is a fantastic way to healthy and sustainable”. This continue to support people and promote biodiversity will be achieved through the economy into the future. throughout Northern Ireland. Council’s strategic objectives, which include protecting our To achieve the The LBAP for Newry, Mourne natural and built environment. recommendations of these and Down district has been strategies, local biodiversity developed using the plans from action must be taken. LBAPs do both the former Newry and just that, developing local Mourne District Council and Mill Bay @ Conor McGuinness

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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area

Newry, Mourne and Down The district has: awareness of the District Council is located in the • 187 Sites of Local Nature importance and variety of south east of Northern Ireland, Conservation Importance biodiversity found within covering parts of County Down (SLNCI). the Newry, Mourne and and Armagh. It is the third • 62 Areas of Special Down district area; and largest council area within Scientific Interest (ASSI) • Encourage local ownership Northern Ireland comprising • 11 Special Areas of of Newry, Mourne and approximately 11% of the total Conservation (SAC) Down district's land area and over 100 miles of • 7 Nature Reserves (NR) biodiversity. coastline. The area is renowned • 3 Special Protection for its scenic beauty, bounded Areas (SPA); and The project strives to ensure on the east by Strangford Lough • 4 Ramsar Sites (RS) that the biodiversity of Newry, and Carlingford Lough and on Mourne and Down district is the west by Slieve Gullion and This reflects the importance of maintained and enhanced Slieve Croob, with the the area for biodiversity. The through the preparation and picturesque Mountains of large number of protected sites, implementation of individual Mourne in the centre. in the wider countryside, land is action plans, covering a range of managed for agriculture, some habitats and species, which Of the eight Areas of of which will be under agri- reflect local, European and Outstanding Natural Beauty environment scheme national priorities. It is based (AONB) designated within agreements. These are designed largely on the targets set out in Northern Ireland, three of them to encourage the adoption of the Northern Ireland lie within the district: Mourne environmentally friendly Biodiversity Strategy, AONB, Ring of Gullion AONB, management practices which translating regional strategy and Strangford and Lecale can have great benefits for our into local action. AONB. The district’s varied biodiversity. landscape combines to provide Everyone who lives in the an important and unique The LBAP for the district district has an important part biodiversity resource. A large outlines a plan of action to: to play; it is only through this number of sites in the district support, can our valuable flora have been designated through • Conserve and enhance the and fauna be protected. legislation to protect key areas rich biodiversity of the or habitats for nature district for both current conservation. and future generations Buff-tailed bumblebee @ Danielle Begley • Educate and raise Newry, Mourne and Down District Council map

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Priority Habitats and Species in Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area

The following habitats and species have been selected for priority action on the merits of national and regional priority, conservation status, extent, rarity and importance to local people. Key species for action also include those that are iconic or will help to inspire people to take action. This list is not exhaustive and will be updated throughout the course of the LBAP.

Broad habitats selected for Species selected for priority Newry, Mourne and Down area priority action in Newry, action in Newry, Mourne and is home to many diverse Mourne and Down area are: Down are: habitats and species. The • coastal and marine • bats following sections outline the habitats • breeding waders different habitats, priority areas • grassland/arable field • bumblebees within them, their key species, margins • fish species and examples of the objectives • peatlands • house sparrow and actions required to • urban habitats/gardens • juniper conserve them. • wetlands • marine mammals • woodlands and • marsh fritillary hedgerows • otter • red kite • red squirrel • yellowhammer

Murlough bluebells @ Ronald Surgenor Aerial view of Carlingford Lough @ NMDDC Marsh fritillary @ Stephen Craig 11 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Coastal Habitats across Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area Coastal

The distinctive coastline of the Newry, Mourne and Down area extends from Killyleagh to Newcastle, through Bloody Bridge to Carlingford Lough. It supports an array of valuable coastal habitats as well as many important species. There are maritime cliffs and slopes, coastal vegetated shingle and coastal saltmarsh habitats as well as extensive sand dune systems.

Local Actions Key Threats • Implement existing by-laws for local biodiversity preservation, and • Coastal squeeze encourage the development and • Erosion enforcement of new by-laws to manage • Inappropriate the coast for the benefit of people and management wildlife • Invasive species • Encourage the monitoring of the • Pollution coastal environment by local • Reclamation community groups • Unregulated shore • Help deliver current and new based shellfish management plans for coastal and marine protected areas for example collection Strangford Lough SAC • Raise awareness of coastal biodiversity through talks, events and media

Murlough Beach, @ Simon Guist Mill bay @ Conor McGuinness Light-bellied Brent goose @ Breffni Martin

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Maritime Cliffs Coastal Vegetated Coastal Saltmarsh and Slopes Shingle Saltmarshes are a highly productive habitat dominated These include hard and soft Coastal vegetated shingle is by species that are tolerant of cliffs, which extend from the defined as sediment with flooding by seawater. They splash zone (above the high particle sizes larger in diameter occur mostly in the upper water mark) at the base of the than sand (>2mm) but smaller vegetated areas of mudflats, in cliff to the land at the cliff top than boulders (<200mm). sheltered areas of low wave which is influenced by salt Vegetated shingle banks occur energy. Saltmarsh is a very spray. Maritime cliffs are often at the upper end of the shore important habitat as the significant for their populations where conditions are vegetation consists of a limited of breeding seabirds, which can favourable, usually in high number of salt tolerant species reach numbers of international energy environments. They adapted to regular covering by importance. They provide occupy long strips but typically the tide. As well as this, it is also nesting sites for breeding birds, have a small surface area and very important for wading birds such as the guillemot, support specialised plant and and wildfowl, such as curlew, kittiwake, peregrine falcon, invertebrate communities. golden plover, lapwing, razorbill and raven. Examples In Northern Ireland, coastal oystercatcher and redshank. include the cliffs at Killard vegetated shingle is found Point, which formed from mainly along the low, rocky Saltmarsh is now a rare habitat debris deposited as the ice parts of the County Down in Northern Ireland as the melted during the last Ice Age, coastline. Extensive areas majority of the original habitat and the cliffs at Maggie’s Leap, include Glassdrumman, has been reclaimed and Newcastle, which support a Gransha Point, Minerstown and improved for agriculture. large population of kittiwakes. Strangford Lough. Rare plants, Strangford Lough and Mill Bay such as sea kale, oysterplant in Carlingford Lough ASSI and yellow horned-poppy are support the most extensive found in these areas. Coastal areas of saltmarsh in Northern vegetated shingle also supports Ireland. The Sheepland Coast breeding birds, such as ringed ASSI also has saltmarsh areas in plover and oystercatcher. sheltered bays and inlets along the coast.

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Coastal Sand Dunes Two of the largest sand dune three sites where this species systems in Northern Ireland are has been seen in the past 30 found within Newry, Mourne years. Tyrella Beach ASSI is a Sand dunes develop when and Down district: Dundrum small enclosed dune complex wind-blown sand is trapped by Bay and Killard National Nature within Dundrum Bay. The two specialised dune building Reserve (NNR). The Dundrum kilometre long flat, sandy beach grasses, such as marram Bay dunes include Murlough is backed by 25 hectares of (Ammophila arenaria), above NNR, which is a fragile 6,000 mature dunes in a conservation the high water mark. Sand year old dune system, owned area. Killard Point ASSI sand dunes are diverse habitats that and managed by the National dune system remains largely support a range of common Trust. Murlough Beach unmodified and is of vital and rare plants, mosses, insects, supports the largest population importance for a number of birds and mammals. They of the marsh fritillary butterfly rare plants and animals. It is support a large proportion of in Northern Ireland and the one of the best sites in our butterfly, moth, ant, bee secretive common lizard may Northern Ireland for grassland and wasp species. Sand dunes also be found. Dundrum Bay and heath invertebrates. also provide nesting habitat for dunes support rare plants, such breeding birds, such as the as Shepherd’s Cress, one of only skylark and meadow pipit. Key Coastal Species

Yellow Horned-poppy Light-bellied Curlew Brent Goose The yellow horned-poppy is a The curlew is a large wading rare plant found on bare shingle The light-bellied Brent goose is a bird, well known for its very along the County Down coast. small, dark goose with a pale long, decurved bill. Its haunting Each individual plant produces belly. Carlingford Lough and two-note call and bubbling song one to several rosettes with a Strangford Lough are the most was once a familiar sound of the single flower stalk emerging important sites for the species open countryside. However, over from each. The waxy leaves are in the United Kingdom and the last 20 years, it has declined greyish-green and covered with Ireland, where they can be seen as a breeding species in fine short hairs which protect from September to April. These Northern Ireland and elsewhere the leaf surface from the salty geese have one of the longest in northern Europe. Outside the conditions in which it lives. migrations, travelling from their breeding season, birds arrive wintering grounds in Ireland via from the north and east to Iceland and Greenland to their winter mainly around the coast. summer breeding grounds in Strangford Lough is one of the arctic Canada. Killough Bay ASSI most important wintering sites is the last staging post in in Northern Ireland for the Ireland before their lengthy curlew. journey to Canada. Their main food plants are eel grass Common Seal (Zostera species), green algae and saltmarsh grasses. Strangford Lough is a stronghold for this charming mammal. It can be recognised by its fine spotted grey or brown fur and V-shaped nostrils. Seals normally feed at sea, but can be seen on several of the many islands within the Lough. Since the 1980s, their population has declined Curlew @ Tom Marshall Yellow horned-poppy @ Debbie Gillies sharply due to pollution and disease. 14 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022 Grassland

Grassland is a major habitat type within Newry, Mourne and Down district, which includes lowland meadows and calcareous grasslands, purple moor grass and rush pastures. These grasslands differ depending on the soil type and vegetation cover. Agriculture is a major industry within the area and, if managed appropriately, farmland can provide food and shelter for many native plants and animals.

Changes to agricultural practices have, in recent times, produced areas of less value to wildlife. However, agri-environment schemes developed by the Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs (DAERA) have encouraged farmers and landowners to adopt environmentally friendly management practices which benefit biodiversity.

Local Actions Key Threats • Creation of Council greenspace management strategy • Abandonment • Liaise with Transport NI and other • Changes in agricultural practice for governmental organisations to enhance example a shift from hay to silage the biodiversity value of roadside verges as well as the overuse of fertiliser through appropriate management • Inappropriate management/ • Pilot wildflower meadows on publicly grazing accessible land to improve areas for • Scrub encroachment pollinators and act as best practice examples • Raise awareness of the importance and value of grasslands for biodiversity through events, talks and media

Photo above: Scabious @ Niall Magee

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Arable Field Margins Traditional management Purple Moor Grass practices in Tullyard ASSI for example, have brought about a and Rush Pasture Arable field margins are strips of great diversity in species land between cereal crops and composition, both of grasses This habitat occurs on poorly the boundary of the field. They and herbs. Levallymore ASSI and drained, acidic soils in lowland are deliberately managed under Tullyratty ASSI are also excellent areas often as fragments within agri-environment agreements to examples of species rich farmland in wet hollows or field benefit farmland wildlife. Arable meadows. corners. Purple moor grass is field margins provide nesting . always present in the mix, with and feeding sites for many birds, Lowland Dry Acid many other species of grasses, such as skylark and linnet, not to sedges, rushes and wildflowers, mention the huge variety of Grassland such as orchids, wild angelica, insects including butterflies, meadow thistle, devil’s bit grasshoppers and plant bugs. Lowland dry acid grassland scabious and self-heal. This Many species of priority occurs in nutrient-poor, well- habitat, in association with wildflowers can be found in drained acid soils. There are no others, provides ideal sites for a these margins. large areas of lowland dry acid number of Northern Ireland’s grassland in Northern Ireland. priority bird species, such as the Lowland Meadows Instead, it is most likely to be skylark, curlew, reed bunting and found in very small patches in a snipe. The Irish lady’s tresses A lowland meadow is defined as matrix of other grassland types. orchid and marsh fritillary unimproved neutral grassland This habitat may also occur in butterfly may also be found in found on enclosed land, old gardens, churchyards and this habitat. In the Newry, normally on a well-drained other amenity areas. In Newry, Mourne and Down district this mineral soil with a sward rich in Mourne and Down district it can habitat occurs within the Quoile wildflowers. Such meadows are be found on the lowland slopes Valley lowlands, Killough Bay found in former hay meadows or of the Mourne Mountains and in and Strand Lough ASSI. in non-agricultural sites, such as South Armagh. Lowland dry acid churchyards or roadside verges. grassland contains plant species In Newry, Mourne and Down such as common bent, sheep’s district several examples of sorrel and tormentil, and lowland pastures can be found supports species such as the in the Crossmaglen drumlins Irish hare and skylark. and Newcastle valleys.

Skylark @ Chris Gomersall Species rich grassland @ DAERA

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Key Grassland Species Yellowhammer

The yellowhammer is a member of the bunting family and a characteristic resident species of lowland arable and mixed farmland. In the summer they can be found in highly productive areas of farmland whereas in winter they form flocks and feed in mixed farmland on stubble fields. The yellowhammer was once a familiar farmbird but its numbers have declined in recent years.

Skylark

The skylark is a small brown farmland bird which is renowned for its display flight. It flies vertically up in the air and then hovers whilst in song. The skylark likes open countryside, from lowland farmland to upland heath. It can be found in the uplands in the Newry and Mourne district, however its numbers have been declining recently.

Pink Meadow Waxcap

The pink meadow waxcap is a fungi with a pinkish-lilac conical cap and a slightly greasy appearance. Fungi acquire nutrients from living or dead plants, animals or other fungi. This species is found all over Northern Ireland in mossy lawns and semi-natural grasslands. Silent Valley in the Mourne Mountains is a good site for the pink meadow waxcap.

Yellowhammer @ Tom Marshall Pink meadow waxcap@ Roy Anderson

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Marine

The marine environment supports over half of our biodiversity. A number of very important marine habitats occur within the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council area.

Local Actions

• Collaborate with the Council’s Tourism and Education programmes to promote the biodiversity, educational and tourism importance of the marine environment through talks and events • Help deliver current and new management plans for marine protected areas such as Strangford Lough SAC • Promote marine recording schemes such as Coastwatch and Shore-thing Key Threats • Promote recording of key marine species such as cetaceans • Water pollution • Work in partnership with local • Invasive species environmental organisations • Marine litter to hold ‘shore clean-ups’ • Over exploitation of marine resources • Physical disturbance for example dredging/trawling • Climate change and sea level rise

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Strangford Lough Carlingford Lough

Strangford Lough was designated as Northern Ireland’s first Marine Carlingford Lough is a narrow and Conservation Zone (MCZ) in 2013, under the introduction of the shallow sea lough that lies on the Marine Act (Northern Ireland). The designation of MCZs safeguards east coast of Ireland, located at the vulnerable or unique marine species and habitats of national border of Northern Ireland and the importance in the Northern Ireland inshore region based on an Republic of Ireland. It has an ecosystem approach. extensive intertidal area of sand and mudflats that provide key feeding The Lough encompasses many marine species and grounds for breeding and habitats of significant importance to the area overwintering birds, including the and therefore is protected by numerous arctic tern, sandwich tern and light- designations. Most significantly it was bellied Brent goose. It also contains appointed an ASSI in 1988 and a SAC in several significant habitats, such as 2005. It boasts many rich habitats for salt marshes and mudflats. wildlife including, but not limited to: tidal mudflats, salt marsh, reed beds, Carlingford Lough was designated Modiolus reefs. an ASSI in 1996, a RAMSAR site in The Lough contains 365 islands that are 1997 and a Special Protection Area utilised by local farmers and are considered (SPA) in 1998. It was subsequently havens for insects, migratory and residential designated as a MCZ in 2016 due to birds, as well as the local seal population. the many habitats and species it supports.

Horse Mussel Beds Maerl Beds Mudflats

The horse mussel, (Modiolus Maerl is the term used to Mudflats are intertidal habitats modiolus), is a long-lived, slow describe several species of created by sedimentary reproducing marine mollusc that calcified marine algae. Although deposition in low energy coastal can occur in isolated clumps or it is slow growing, over long environments, particularly in together in large beds. These beds periods its dead calcareous estuaries and other sheltered form a vital habitat for the skeleton can accumulate into areas, such as sea loughs. They attachment of many marine deep deposits. With an additional are highly productive areas, animals that would otherwise thin layer of living maerl, beds are which, together with other not be found in the area formed. Maerl beds are typically intertidal habitats, are of great (approximately 272 species). found in sheltered conditions importance to large numbers of These include Brittlestars, the with some tidal flow, including birds and fish. They provide Rugose Squat Lobster and the the narrows and rapids of sea resting areas for internationally commercially important Queen loughs. These habitats can important populations of Scallop. Some of the mussels support communities of sea pens migratory, over wintering and within beds can be 25 years old or and sea cucumbers. Maerl beds breeding waterfowl. Mudflats can more. The beds occur in four are found in Strangford Lough at be found at the western end of areas in Northern Ireland, the Zara Shoal off Castleward Bay, Carlingford Lough and largest of which is found in Jane’s Rock in the centre of the throughout Strangford Lough. Strangford Lough. Due to Lough and Rainey Island near Intertidal mudflats are also found deterioration of the Strangford Whiterock. within Inner Dundrum Bay and Lough beds a permanent ban was Killough Bay ASSI. placed on mobile fishing gear. The restoration plan recommends ‘total protection’ in areas of the

Lough where fishing activities Common seal @ Ronald Surgenor prevent the recovery of the beds. Boat on Mill Bay @ Conor McGuinness Sea pen @ Dave Wall 19 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Mud Habitats in Saline Lagoons and are a valuable food resource for wildfowl, such as Deep Water the light-bellied Brent goose. Saline lagoons are water bodies Seagrass beds can be found in Mud habitats in deep water with a restricted connection to Carlingford Lough, Dundrum typically occur below 20-30m the sea due to natural or Bay, Killough Harbour and in many areas of the United artificial barriers. As a result, Strangford Lough. Kingdom's marine the salinity of the water is environment. As a fairly stable neither marine nor fresh but habitat, communities of may vary from brackish to fully burrowing animals often saline. Organisms found in become established, such as saline lagoons range from the Dublin Bay prawn and sea marine and freshwater species pens. Several Northern Ireland to lagoon specialists. Saline priority species use these lagoons are also important habitats, including the rugose habitats for large numbers squat lobster. Beds of Dublin of wildfowl and waders. Bay prawns have been recorded off Newcastle and are found in In the Newry, Mourne the centre of Strangford Lough and Down district on extensive areas of mud area, saline lagoons plains. Mud habitats in deep are found at Killough water can also be found in Bay and Strand Lough Carlingford Lough. ASSI. Strand Lough is a brackish lake but many of the Sabellaria alveolata surrounding fields Reefs contain plants characteristic of saline Sabellaria alveolata reefs conditions. It is the last consist of tightly packed remaining site in Ireland that honeycomb-like masses of supports the Northern Ireland tubes constructed by a small priority species, the crawling worm called the Polychaete. water beetle, Haliplus apicalis. The reefs can be up to 50 centimetres thick, forming Seagrass Beds sheets, hummocks or massive formations. Compared to Seagrasses are marine young formations, older reefs flowering plants which often seem to support a higher level grow in dense, extensive beds of biodiversity due to their in shallow, coastal areas on increased number of crevices. sheltered sandy or muddy Recent surveys have located substrata. This creates a highly these reefs at three sites within productive habitat that the district: Glassdrumman provides food and shelter for where there is a high quality other plant and animal reef, Minerstown, and Coney species. Seagrass beds also Island. provide nursery and foraging areas for commercially Harbour porpoise @ Dave Wall important fish, improve water Common seal @ Ronald Surgenor quality by removing dissolved Warrenpoint @ Conor McGuinness Harbour porpoise @ Ronald Surgenor nutrients, stabilise sediments

20 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Key Marine Species

Harbour Porpoise

The harbour porpoise is the smallest and most common cetacean (whale/dolphin) found in the coastal waters of Northern Ireland. It is dark grey with a pale belly and white extending up the sides. It has no forehead or distinct beak and can often be detected by the sound of its short, sharp blows. The population is believed to have decreased over the last 50 years, which may be due in part to thousands of porpoises getting caught and drowning in commercial fishing nets every year around the United Kingdom coast. The best places to see harbour porpoises are headlands and bays when the sea is calm.

Sea pen

The slender sea pen, (Virgularia mirabilis), is a marine invertebrate in the same group as corals and anemones. True to its name, the sea pen looks like an old fashioned quill that can retract into the mud when disturbed. In the Down district area, communities of this sea pen can be found in sandy and muddy habitats in Dundrum Bay, part of the Quoile River and Strangford Lough.

Common Seal

The common seal is the smaller of the two seals found along the County Down coastline. It can be recognised by its short muzzle and V-shaped nostrils, compared to the longer, doglike muzzle of the grey seal. The common seal can be seen hauled out on rocky shores and sandbanks from July to September. Strangford Lough is home to a significant population of these marine mammals in Northern Ireland. However, recent research has found that this population is currently in decline.

21 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Peatlands

Peatlands are a characteristic part of the Irish landscape due to the island’s cold, wet climate. Northern Ireland contains a significant proportion of the remaining bog resource in Europe and therefore the importance of these bogs cannot be over-emphasised.

Key Threats Local Actions • Commercial forestry • Drainage • Develop initiatives at suitable sites to • Extensive peat extraction help enhance their value for wildlife • Habitat loss and fragmentation • Promote the new Environmental • Inappropriate development Farming Scheme for example wind farms • Promote the use of peat free compost • Inappropriate grazing within the Council and at wildlife • Liming and burning gardening events and talks for the public • Non-native invasive species • Raise awareness of the importance of such as rhododendron bogs and heath for biodiversity • Scrub encroachment through events, talks and media • Trampling and disturbance

22 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Lowland Raised Bog

Lowland raised bogs are peatland ecosystems that are found in lowland areas generally below 150 meters. In Northern Ireland they are typically found in wide river valleys or between glacial hilly drumlins. Due to their harsh conditions, only a limited number of specialised plants can live in these habitats, including cotton grasses, cross-leaved heath and bog asphodel. The main building block of peat is sphagnum mosses. These mosses hold water like a sponge contributing to the waterlogged, acidic conditions. In Newry, Mourne and Down district, small patches of lowland raised bog have been found in the Strangford drumlins and islands and also in the Mourne Mountains. Unfortunately, many have been cut-over in the past and some have subsequently been reclaimed into grassland while others developed into diverse sites with fen, carr woodland, and remnant patches of bog.

Blanket Bog

Blanket bog generally occurs in upland areas and is a layer of peat and associated vegetation covering the land like a 'blanket'. Similar to lowland raised bogs, sphagnum mosses are the main component of a blanket bog. Other dominant plant species include heather and cross-leaved heather, cottongrass, deergrass and sundews. Within Newry, Mourne and Down district, blanket bog is found mainly on the higher slopes of the Carrigatuke Hills, Mourne Mountains and Slieve Roosley. Kilbroney red bog above Rostrevor is one example occurring in the Mournes Mountains. However very little of the blanket bog in the Mourne Mountains and Carrigatuke remains Green hairstreak butterfly @ Mourne Heritage Trust Murlough @ Ronald Surgenor intact; most has eroded and is thin, and other areas of Sundew @ Ronald Surgenor deeper peat have been cut-over or indeed cut-away.

23 Lowland Heathland Upland Heathland Montane Heathland

Lowland heath occurs on Upland heathland occurs on Montane heathland is found in mineral soils and thin peat acidic soil and thin peat in areas that lie above the natural generally below 300 meters and upland areas on the higher level of tree development, supports a range of flora and slopes, generally above heights generally above 600m. Northern fauna not found on upland of around 300m. Upland heath Ireland is towards the southern heath. It is characterised by the often forms part of a mosaic edge of the natural range for presence of dwarf shrubs, such with other habitats, such as this habitat. It consists of a as heather and bell heather. The acid grassland, bog and fen range of short dwarf shrubs, majority of the Northern Ireland which enhances its value for such as heather, grasses, sedges resource can be found in Newry, wildlife. The Mourne Mountains and specialised mosses and Mourne and Down district on support some of the most lichens. Montane heathland the lower slopes of the Mourne extensive and important tracts occurs on several summits in Mountains and the Ring of of upland heath in Northern the Mourne Mountains, most Gullion. Lowland heath in the Ireland, which are also of notably Slieve Binnian. Species Mourne Mountains area is European importance. The present are similar to those important for a number of upland heathland on Slieve found in blanket bog and United Kingdom and Northern Gullion ASSI is one of the largest upland heathland, such as Ireland priority species, such as expanses in Northern Ireland of meadow pipit. the keeled skimmer dragonfly, this rare habitat. It is dominated and green hairstreak and marsh by heather and, where there is fritillary butterflies. no intervening forestry, there is a transition downslope to lowland heaths, acid grassland and fens. Cowberry can also be found here. Other important species found in upland heath in the district include the Irish hare, juniper and peregrine falcon.

24 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Key Peatland Species Irish Hare The Irish hare is a unique hare species only found in Ireland. It has a russet brown coat, long ears with black tips and eyes set high in the head. The species occur in the Newry, Mourne and Down district area in upland sites but also on lowland sites such as bogs, coastal grassland and farmland.

Green Hairstreak Butterfly The green hairstreak is an unmistakable small green butterfly that is found in bogs and heaths with plenty of scrub. The green hairstreak always rests with its wings closed showing its striking metallic green undersides that have a faint line of white spots. This is a clever form of camouflage as it resembles a newly opened leaf. Food plants include bird’s-foot-trefoil, gorse, bilberry, cross leaved heath and bramble. Green hairstreak butterflies have been recorded at various sites across the district including Silent Valley and Tollymore Forest Park.

Juniper Juniper is one of only three conifers native to Ireland. It is a slow growing prickly shrub which can be found growing either low to the ground or upright. It is mainly found in montane habitats and around limestone pavement or calcareous rocky outcrops and cliffs. Juniper was one of the first plants to recolonise the landscape of Northern Ireland post-glaciation. It is thought to have declined by up to 60% throughout the British Isles since the 1960s, possibly due to increased agriculture and overgrazing by cattle, sheep and goats. Juniper found in the Mourne Mountains is genetically unique.

Top left: Juniper @ Mourne Heritage Trust Above: Juniper @ Mourne Heritage Trust Irish Hare @ Ronald Surgenor 25 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Urban Habitats and Gardens

Often overlooked, urban habitats and gardens are very important for a wide range of species. These urban greenspaces have special significance for biodiversity as they are where wildlife and people can interact. Habitats include abandoned and brownfield sites, cemeteries, gardens, golf courses, industrial sites, urban parks and walks.

Key Threats

• Landfill and dumping, including fly-tipping • Non-native invasive species • Unsympathetic management including excessive chemical use and grass cutting which results in a rye grass dominated monoculture • Urban development Local Actions

• Collaborate with the Council’s grounds maintenance section to improve the biodiversity value and interpretation of local parks • Create and manage a network of Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) in Council owned sites • Raise awareness of wildlife friendly gardening through public events White-tailed bumblebee @ Niall Magee Beautiful garden @ Liam Blair and the media

26 Urban Greenspace

Small pockets of green space in urban settings can provide ideal habitats for a wide range of plants and animals. Sites such as cemeteries, golf courses, roundabouts and small parks provide safe havens for wildlife in busy towns and cities. In the Newry, Mourne and Down district there are many Gardens examples of green spaces and small parks which are of benefit Gardens link urban greenspace Industrial and to people and wildlife alike. with the wider countryside, forming a mosaic of wildlife Business Sites Parks are generally larger and habitats. Every garden, big or more mature than gardens, and small, has the potential to be a Many industrial sites have areas therefore tend to have a more mini nature reserve. Many within their premises that are of diverse range of wildlife gardens already support some benefit to wildlife. Neglected associated with them. Parks are level of biodiversity, but with a corners provide a refuge for a typically managed for formal little more planning for wildlife range of plants and animals. and informal recreation but in mind, we could be making a Old derelict buildings can many could be developed to much more valuable provide shelter for bats and enhance their biodiversity value. contribution to protecting our nesting places for birds, such as Good examples of public parks native plant and animal species. the house martin, starling and in the district include swallow. New industrial sites Castlewellan Forest Park, can also be valuable for wildlife, Kilbroney Park, Tollymore Forest if landscaped using native Park and Slieve Gullion Forest flowers, shrubs and trees. Park. 27 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Key Species

Key Species

House Sparrow

The house sparrow lives happily alongside humans nesting under roof tiles and sometimes in existing swallows nests. It has suffered decline recently due to a lack of insect food in the summer and winter seed and is consequently a Northern Ireland priority species.

Bumblebees and Pollinators

There are six common bumblebee species that can be found in gardens, including the white-tailed and red-tailed bumblebees. During the summer bumblebees are ‘busy’, collecting nectar and in turn, pollinating native plants and agricultural crops. Sadly, bumblebees are declining as there is not enough natural habitat left for them to live. Although species-rich grassland is the preferred habitat for most bees, urban gardens are providing an important haven for this declining group.

Hedgehog

The western European hedgehog was selected as a United Kingdom priority species in 2007 due to a decline in numbers. They are common in farmland, gardens and parks, and throughout the British Isles, and prefer woodland edges, hedgerows and suburban habitats where there is plenty of food, such as caterpillars, beetles, slugs and worms.

28 Wetland Habitats

Wetlands are extremely important habitats as they support a variety of plants and animals, such as amphibians, birds, fish, invertebrates and mammals. Newry, Mourne and Down district has many good quality examples of wetland habitat including fens, lakes, reedbeds, rivers and streams.

Key Threats

• Changes in water levels through drainage and inappropriate management • Non-native invasive species for example Japanese knotweed, giant hogweed and Himalayan balsam • Nutrient enrichment of Local Actions water through pollution, such as agricultural run-off • Develop initiatives at suitable • Salmon farms which can negatively wetland sites to help enhance their impact wild salmonoid populations value for wildlife through, for example, sea lice • Promote and increase the recording of key wetland species • Raise awareness of the importance of wetlands for biodiversity through specific guided walks, talks and media

Quoile @ Hayley McKeown Opposite page: House sparrow @ Ray Kennedy Hedgehog @ Ben Hall

2929 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Lakes and Ponds Rivers and Streams Fens

Standing open water, including Rivers and streams are of great A fen is a wetland with a lakes and ponds, are quite an value to wildlife and because of permanently high water level at extensive habitat across Newry, this are recognised as an or just below the surface. They Mourne and Down district and important habitat locally. No two often form on peaty soils in river Northern Ireland as a whole. rivers are alike and neither are valleys or hollows and receive the Lakes can be classified by the their assemblages of plants and majority of their water and levels of nutrients that occur animals. They support many nutrients from ground water, soil naturally in the water. Eutrophic priority and important species, and rock. Fens support a rich waters have high nutrient levels such as Atlantic salmon, brown variety of sedges, grasses and and, in their natural state, trout, otter and bat species. mosses, as well as invertebrates, associated high levels of such as the Irish damselfly and biodiversity. Examples in the Newry River the whirligig beetle. Breeding district include Derryleckagh Newry River flows through Newry waders also depend on fen Lough, Great Dam and Mill Pond. City, acting as a border between wetlands habitats. In Newry, Mesotrophic lakes have moderate counties Down and Armagh, Mourne and Down district, nutrient levels and in the district eventually emptying into rich fen occurs at the Fens of include Altnadua Lough, Carlingford Lough. This provides a Lecale SAC, Ballybannan Aughnadarragh Lough ASSI and valuable wildlife corridor for ASSI, Ballycam ASSI and Camlough Lough. Marl lakes have species movement along with Carrowcarlin ASSI. The latter high alkalinity and low nutrient the canal and other rivers present site supports invertebrates levels (oligotrophic). The Lecale in the district. including rare water beetles, region includes an area of marl spiders and pond skaters. lakes and fen peat pools of high Shimna River biodiversity importance at This river, designated as an ASSI Reedbeds Loughkeelan, east of in 2007, runs from the Mourne Downpatrick. The Loughkeelan Mountains through Tollymore The term reedbed describes a ASSI supports large numbers of Forest Park before draining into wetland habitat dominated by rare stoneworts and the United the Irish Sea at Newcastle. It is in common reed in areas where the Kingdom priority species, marsh a highly natural state and water table is at or above ground stitchwort, occurs in adjacent fen provides an excellent habitat for level for most of the year. This areas. populations of Atlantic salmon, habitat is widely distributed on brown trout and sea trout. the margins of water bodies, Ponds are found within along lowland and upland interdrumlin areas across east Quoile River streams, estuaries, reservoirs, clay Down, ranging from large pools The Quoile River is a major river pits, sewage treatment works, surrounded by fringes of fen or system in the Council area. It industrial lagoons and as woodland to small ponds with flows from Annacloy through successional habitat on fens and more extensive fens. Lakes and Downpatrick to the barrage bogs. In Newry, Mourne and ponds support invertebrates, where it flows into Strangford Down district reedbeds can be such as beetles, dragonflies, Lough. In 1957 a tidal barrier was found in Ballykilbeg (SAC, ASSI), mayflies and pondskaters. They constructed to prevent flooding Killough Bay and Strand Lough also support many species of in the Downpatrick area. This ASSI and Turmennan (SAC, ASSI). breeding and wintering caused the formation of a Ballykilbeg supports a number of waterfowl and plants, such sheltered pond at the end of the scarce plants and a well- as duckweeds and yellow river. On either side of established colony of the marsh water-lily. the Quoile River is the Quoile fritillary butterfly. Reedbeds also Pondage NNR. The Reserve has a provide excellent cover for birds diversity of habitat and wildlife, such as the reed bunting. including insects, willow, eels and various wading birds, including herons.

30 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Key Wetland Species

Otter Otters live on the banks of rivers, lakes and the coast feeding on fish, shellfish, smaller mammals and birds. They have a long streamlined body and tail and can be found sleeping in holes in the riverbank called holts. They are quite widespread within the Newry, Mourne and Down district area, especially along Newry Canal and the Quoile River ASSI.

Irish Damselfly The Irish damselfly is a delicate blue damselfly found in Ireland around small lakes and is concentrated in Armagh, Down, Fermanagh and Tyrone. Within the Newry, Mourne and Down district area, it has been recorded at Black Lough ASSI and Drumlougher Lough ASSI outside Crossmaglen. The Irish damselfly is a Northern Ireland priority species and only occurs in areas where there is good water quality, as it is very sensitive to pollution.

Atlantic Salmon The Atlantic salmon is known as the ‘king of fish’ due to its vast migrations across the North Atlantic. In autumn, adults make their way upstream to spawn in riverbeds, often leaping over obstacles such as waterfalls to do so. One year after moving to the sea, young salmon use their homing instinct to return to the river of their birth to spawn themselves. Major threats include over fishing, introduction of non-native salmon stocks, physical barriers to migration and increased mortality at sea. These fish can be found in rivers in the Mourne Mountains. The Footstick Bridge in Tollymore Forest Park is a ‘hot spot’ for leaping salmon.

Otter @ DAERA Irish Damselfly @ Brian Nelson Atlantic salmon @ Laurie Campbell

31 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Woodland

There was a time when Northern Ireland was almost completely covered in woodland. However, as a result of agriculture and development, we now have only six percent woodland cover, one percent of which is native broad-leaved woodland.

Key Threats

• Habitat loss and/or fragmentation • Inappropriate management • Non-native invasive species such as grey squirrel, Japanese knotweed and rhododendron Local Actions • Tree diseases such as ash dieback • Increase the woodland cover of our district through promotion of funded schemes, such as agri-environment schemes and the Woodland Trust schemes for restoration, restocking or creation • Pilot new woodland planting schemes on appropriate publically accessible land • Promote and increase the recording of key woodland species • Raise awareness of the importance of woodlands and hedges through guided walks, talks and media

32 Oakwoods Wet Woodland

Oakwoods are dominated by the Wet woodlands are a range of two native oak species in woods that occur on poorly Northern Ireland; sessile oak drained or waterlogged soils, and pedunculate oak in such as around lake shores, association with other species, along streams, on hill-side such as downy birch, hazel, holly flushes and on fens and cutover and rowan. The ground layer is bogs. Typically wet woodlands often rich in ferns, woodland are dominated by willow, alder wildflowers including blubells, or downy birch and can often great wood-rush, wild garlic and occur as habitat mosaics with Mixed Ashwoods shrubs such as bilberry and other woodland types. bramble. These woods can also Mixed ashwoods are woodlands contain many rare species of Examples of wet woodland in where ash is the dominant fungi and lichen. the district can be found at species in association with other Cappagh Lough and St. Peter's broadleaf native species such as Rostrevor oakwood overlooking Lough which are predominately oak, downy birch and hazel. Carlingford Lough is the most alder and willow carr. Wet Other trees, such as rowan and established oakwood in the woodland has also developed the non-native species sycamore district. It is designated an ASSI undisturbed in Hollymount and beech, may also be as well as a NNR and is open to Forest NNR since 1745 and, common. Mixed ashwoods the public. Another oakwood in under the dense canopy of alder support a rich and colourful the district is Bohill Forest and willow trees, yellow flag iris ground flora of spring-flowering Nature Reserve. This small and other wetland plants herbs, such as bluebells, deciduous woodland contains dominate the ground. primrose and wild garlic and native trees that have naturally wood-anemone. regenerated since the site was clear felled in the past. The In Newry, Mourne and Down reserve was established and is district, mixed ashwoods are now managed to protect the found on Fathom Mountain and holly blue butterfly. This in the Newcastle Valleys. Small woodland also supports red unidentified pockets of mixed deer and woodland birds such as the jay, goldcrest and tit ashwoods can also be found Red squirrel @ DAERA across the district that may have species. Hawthorn Hill @ Danielle Begley Yellow flag iris @ Belfast Hills Partnership importance locally for wildlife. 33 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Parkland Hedgerows act as very important wildlife corridors for many Parkland is a special type of species, providing woodland that is uncommon in connectivity Northern Ireland. They are between designed landscapes associated habitats with significant houses or allowing demesnes. There is generally a dispersal and mosaic of habitats including movement. open grown veteran trees set in They pasture or heathland, specimen support trees, boundary features, many woodland blocks, streams, species of rivers and natural or birds, insects constructed lakes. Parklands are and important for a wide variety of mammals. species from grasses, lower Hedgerows are plants and invertebrates to found birds, bats and mammals. throughout the district, typically Examples of parkland in Newry, adjacent to semi- Mourne and Down district natural habitats and include: Castleward, low intensity farmland. Castlewellan Forest Park, Creggan Poet's Glen, Delamont Country Park, Derrymore House, Mourne Park and Seaforde House. Species-rich Hedgerows

Hedges are defined as linear boundaries, comprised of planted shrubs. Species-rich hedgerows are those which contain five or more native woody species on average in a 30 metre length or those with a rich flora of herbaceous plants, such as bluebell, herb-robert, lords and ladies, primrose and wood anemone at their base. Hedges are an integral part of Ireland's landscape and a valuable habitat for local biodiversity.

Red squirrel @ Ronald Surgenor Song thrush @ Chris Gomersall Nathusius pipistrelle @ Mark Smyth

34 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

Key Species Red Squirrel Catching a glimpse of a native red squirrel is a moment to be treasured. As a shy creature, the red squirrel spends most of its time in the tree tops of mainly coniferous woods. The biggest threat comes from the grey squirrel, which was introduced from North America. The grey squirrel is bigger, bolder and has a less specialised diet compared to the red squirrel. It also transmits the deadly pox virus to the red squirrel. As the grey squirrel expands its range, it is replacing the red squirrel, especially in deciduous woodland. The Cooley, Ring of Gullion and Tollymore red squirrel groups are actively involved in conserving the red squirrel population through recording and providing supplementary food.

Song Thrush The song thrush is a familiar and popular songbird whose numbers are declining seriously. It is a brown bird with a white (or yellow-white) chest densely sprinkled with arrow head spots. It occurs on farmland, in gardens and in woodland edges and feeds on insects, snails and worms.

Pipistrelle Bats There are three species of pipistrelle bat in Northern Ireland: common, soprano and the newly recorded nathusius pipistrelle. These flying mammals forage along edges such as tree lines, large hedgerows and water edges. Using echolocation (use of echoes), a single individual can eat up to 3,000 insects in one night. Hibernation occurs from November to April after which females give birth to a single pup that they can recognise individually by smell and sound. For further information on local bat species visit the Northern Ireland Bat Group website: www.bats-ni.org.uk

35 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Local Action for Species

Of the wide variety of species found in the Newry, Mourne and Down district, 12 (individual species and groups of species) have been selected for priority action (see the tables on pages 37-40). Other species not selected for specific action will still benefit from the Habitat Action Plans (HAPs).

Small tortoiseshell butterfly @ Linda Thompson Nathusius pipistrelle @ Mark Smyth Breeding waders @ Ronald Surgenor Common carder bumblebee @ Niall Magee

36 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

SPECIES DESCRIPTION THREATS LOCAL ACTIONS

Bats Bats are one of the • Loss of foraging • Guide Council and smallest mammals in areas and wildlife other organisations Northern Ireland, corridors on their legislative commonly found in • Loss of roost sites, duties with regards to buildings, trees, caves such as buildings, bats and development and bridges. Despite trees and bridges • Provide advice to their widespread • Poisoning, such as members of the occurrence, they are water pollution and public on bat afforded European chemicals used in conservation protection due to their timber treatment • Raise awareness of sensitivity to habitat bats through bat change and vulnerability walks and talks in to persecution. the area in partnership with the Northern ireland Bat Group

Breeding Waders Breeding waders live and • Agricultural • Encourage breed in wetland improvement responsible rambling habitats, wet grassland, • Disturbance relating in sensitive areas hay meadows, to development and • Highlight the threats unimproved pasture and dogs to waders through in some upland areas • Drainage media and guided where there is a good • Encroachment of walks and talks supply of invertebrates. scrub on breeding • Promote the They include lapwing, wader sites recording of waders redshank, curlew and • Predation on small across the district snipe. fragmented • Work with populations landowners where waders occur to encourage sensitive management

Bumblebees and There are 20 species of • Fragmentation and • Manage key Council Pollinators bumblebee on the island loss of suitable owned sites to of Ireland of which one habitat due to improve for third are threatened development and the pollinators and act with extiction and an intensification of as best practice additional three species agriculture examples are near threatened. • Pesticides; use of • Raise awareness of Most people will see six pesticides in farming the plight of the bumblebee species in • Over-management bumblebee, the their gardens and this of greenspace threats they face and makes up 95% of the how to help through bumblebees present in the media and events Northern Ireland. They • Work in partnership are normally associated to improve road side with flower rich verges and other grasslands, vibrant greenspace across gardens and species rich the district hedgerows.

37 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

SPECIES DESCRIPTION THREATS LOCAL ACTIONS

Fish Species Fish play an important • Physical barriers to • Work to develop fish part in freshwater migration population studies habitats in Northern • Physical degradation for a number of Ireland and contribute of spawning and important rivers and greatly to our economy. nursery habitats tributaries in the • Pollution district • Exploitation from • Work with DfI Rivers netting and angling to improve the • Salmon farms which habitat where threaten wild salmon appropriate populations

House Sparrow A common bird in • Lack of food and • Raise awareness of many gardens. winter stubble the house sparrow Numbers have dropped • Predation by cats and through media and in certain areas due to sparrowhawks events a lack of insect food in • Reduction in nest • Promote wildlife summer and winter sites due to modern friendly gardening seed. building methods and recording of the house sparrow

Juniper A prickly shrub which • Burning • Raise awareness of tends to be found in • Grazing the species through exposed areas such as • Scrub clearance education and events rocky outcrops. It is one • Vegetational • Promote further of only three conifers succession recording through native to Ireland. talks with public and landowners • Work with partners, such as MHT, to help create more self- sustaining populations of juniper

Marine Mammals The Council area is host • Open net fishing • Assist/support local to two species of seals, • Pollution, such as groups with coastal common and grey. agricultural run-off, clean-ups Twenty four species of litter, oil spills and • Organise one event cetacean (whales, acoustic pollution per year to promote dolphins and porpoises) • Ship/boat strikes recording in the have been recorded in district Irish waters, with eight • Promote schemes, species regular visitors such as WiSe, or residents to our through talks with shores. local boat owners

Atlantic salmon @ Laurie Campbell House sparrow @ Ray Kennedy Juniper @ MHT

38 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

SPECIES DESCRIPTION THREATS LOCAL ACTIONS Marsh Fritillary The marsh fritillary is a • Loss and reduced • Assist with medium-sized colourful quality of breeding monitoring of butterfly. The bright habitat as a result of populations where orange, yellow and agricultural possible white chequers on the improvement along • Raise awareness of wings are in contrast with fragmentation the marsh fritillary with the dark brown of habitat and promote background. Both sexes • Parasitic wasps and recording through look similar but the other predators, such the media and female is the larger. In as spiders, bugs and events, such as the June and early July the ground beetles can Big Butterfly Count marsh fritillary is on also cause • Work with partners the wing. fluctuations in to improve habitat populations for marsh fritillary across the district

Otter Otters live in a variety • Pollution, such as • Raise awareness of of habitats including farm waste, the importance of freshwater rivers, lakes pesticides and oil otters through the and coasts. Signs of spills media and otters have been • Habitat loss through events/talks recorded throughout drainage and • Promote recording the district. removal of bankside and surveying vegetation otters • Accidental death, • Construct an such as road traffic artificial otter holt accidents and by way of demon- drowning in fishing stration to the equipment public • Work with public bodies, including DfI Rivers and DAERA Red Kite This magnificently • Poisoning, such as • Continue to support graceful bird of prey is illegal poison baits the ‘RKites’ project unmistakable with its set for foxes or crows and assist with reddish-brown body, are indiscriminate raising awareness of angled wings and and kill protected the red kite deeply forked tail. It birds and other • Help to promote was saved from animals responsible national extinction by rodenticide use one of the world's • Work with RSPB and longest running other partners to protection hold one public programmes, and was event/talk per year successfully re- focusing on the red introduced to Northern kite Ireland in 2008.

Marsh fritillary @ Stephen Craig Otter @ DAERA Red kite @ Ben Hall 39 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

SPECIES DESCRIPTION THREATS LOCAL ACTIONS Red Squirrel Our native squirrel is a • Disease such as the • Hold events to raise shy creature of a parapox virus, which awareness of the red reddish colour, with a is carried and spread squirrel, such as Red bushy tail and ear tufts. by the grey squirrels Squirrel Week They spend most of • Grey squirrels which • Promote recording of their time high in the outcompete the red the red squirrel by tree canopy mainly in for habitat and food members of the coniferous woodland. public and local The spread of the non- groups native grey squirrel • Support local efforts threatens the native to re-establish or red squirrel. increase red squirrel populations • Work with the local red squirrel groups to raise awareness

Yellowhammer These buntings occur in • Changes in land • Increase awareness arable and mixed management from and recording farming areas in the mixed farming to through at least one district. The male livestock production engagement with yellowhammer is • Changes in spring the media and one unmistakable with his sown cereals to event per year bright yellow head and autumn sown • Pilot suitable sites for chest. During the cereals giant bird tables on winter they feed on • Inappropriate council owned land grain and seeds management of • Support the RSPB whereas throughout hedgerows and other partners in the summer breeding • Use of pesticides their work with season they feed on yellowhammers • Work with DAERA to insects. promote entry and commitment to arable options in agri-environment schemes

Please note, this list is not exhaustive. Key species will continue to be monitored by the relevant organisations.

Red squirrel @ Ronald Surgenor Yellowhammer @ Tom Marshall

40 Do Your Bit for Biodiversity

In order for the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s LBAP to be successful, it is important to have the support and involvement of local people and local organisations. There are a number of ways in which you as an individual or organisation can get involved and play a vital part in enhancing and maintaining the area’s biodiversity.

Girl exploring @ Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership

4141 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Farmers and Land Owners Individuals You can greatly contribute to this LBAP through • Have a go at wildlife gardening and enjoy the managing your land or sections of it in a way that small wonders in your own patch: why not will benefit local wildlife, particularly farmland create a street garden and encourage your birds. For example: neighbours to do one thing for biodiversity in • Cut hedgerows as late as possible in the their gardens too. season, ideally February, so seeds, nuts and • Help build a better picture of local biodiversity berries are available to wildlife. and become a wildlife recorder. Record any • Follow the codes of good agricultural practice. sightings of important wildlife and report • Leave field margins uncut later in the season these to the Biodiversity Officer or directly to for birds, insects and mammals. the Ulster Museum’s recording centre, CEDaR • Restrict any cutting of hedgerows to every (www.nmni.com/CEDaR). other year to allow some stretches to flower • Report wildlife crime. Incidents such as and fruit each autumn. dumping and water pollution should not be • Sign up to an agri-environment scheme if ignored as these have an impact on local eligible, to add further benefit to wildlife. biodiversity. See our signposting page for contact details of where to report wildlife You can find out more about agri-environment crime. schemes by contacting your local DAERA office. • Use natural resources more sensitively, for example create your own compost heap, reduce your waste and the need for peat Community Groups compost, or use a water butt to reduce water • Create a community wildlife garden and usage. increase your local sense of pride and • Volunteer – there are always local projects that stewardship for the environment. need the help of volunteers and give people a • Help implement your LBAP plan by starting a chance to learn about helping their local community project – contact the Newry, wildlife. These could be tree planting days, bird Mourne and Down Biodiversity Officer to find box making or scrub clearance for example. out how. Not only will you learn about conservation • Help plant a woodland or preserve a local bog techniques but you will also be getting fit in for the future. the process. • Work in conjunction with a local school to develop biodiversity projects. To find out more about the Newry, Mourne and Down LBAP project please contact:

Businesses Newry, Mourne and Down Biodiversity Officer • Create your own wildlife garden in your Newry, Mourne and Down District Council company grounds. You could build an O’Hagan House, insect hotel or even sow a small wildflower Monaghan Row meadow. Newry • Sponsor a local biodiversity project and help BT35 8DJ make it happen. • Take part in team building days by allowing Telephone: 0300 013 2233 staff to volunteer on local conservation Email: [email protected] projects which will give them new skills and Web: www.newrymournedown.org help local biodiversity.

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Butterfly survey @ Lecale conservation Exploring the seashore @ Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership

43 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

Finding Out More about Biodiversity If you would like to find out more about biodiversity, please visit the websites listed below or contact the organisations. Biodiversity in Northern Ireland - www.biodiversityni.com Biodiversity Ireland - www.biodiversityireland.ie British Trust for Ornithology - www.bto.org Butterfly Conservation - www.butterfly-conservation.org Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (CEDaR) - www.nmni.com/cedar Department of Agriculture, Environment and Rural Affairs - www.daera-ni.gov.uk Ecoschools - www.eco-schoolsni.org Farm Wildlife - www.farmwildlife.info Forest Service - www.dardni.gov.uk/forestry Habitas - www.habitas.org.uk Loughs Agency - www.loughs-agency.org Mourne Heritage Trust - www.mournelive.com National Biodiversity Data Centre - www.biodiversityireland.ie National Trust - www.nationaltrust.org.uk Northern Ireland Bat Group - www.bats-ni.org.uk Northern Ireland Environment Link - www.nienvironmentlink.org Northern Ireland Fungi Group - www.nifg.org.uk Ring of Gullion AONB - www.ringofgullion.org Royal Society for the Protection of Birds - www.rspb.org.uk Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership - www.strangfordlough.org The Conservation Volunteers - www.tcv.org.uk Ulster Wildlife - www.ulsterwildlife.org Walk NI - www.walkni.com Waterways Ireland - www.waterwaysireland.org Water Management Unit - www.doeni.gov.uk/niea/water Woodland Trust - www.woodlandtrust.org.uk

Where to Report Wildlife Crime and Pollution Grounded or Injured Police Service NI Water Pollution Bats in Your Building Wildlife crime includes offences Hotline like poaching, killing or Call CEDaR (Centre for There is a hotline for urgent disturbing protected species or Environmental Data and water pollution incidents. damaging their breeding and Recording) in the first instance Members of the public are resting places. Where you to report the case. Email: asked to call the following suspect that an incident is a [email protected], or telephone number if they wildlife crime, you should telephone: 028 9039 5264. become aware of such an report it to the local PSNI either Outside of hours, contact the incident Tel: 0800 807 060. at the nearest police station or Northern Ireland Bat Group or This service must be used to by telephoning 101. Make sure see their website for guidance report all urgent water you state that you believe a https://www.bats- pollution incidents. 'wildlife crime' has taken place ni.org.uk/what-to-do-if-you- and always ask for a crime find-a-bat/ reference number to allow you to follow up any action.

44 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022 Newry, Mourne and Down Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018 – 2022 This table outlines the overarching objectives and key actions of Newry, Mourne and Down’s plan: • Conserve and enhance the rich biodiversity of the district for both current and future generations • Educate and raise awareness of the importance and variety of biodiversity found within Newry, Mourne and Down district, and • Encourage local ownership of Newry, Mourne and Down district's biodiversity.

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE KEY ACTIONS LEAD PARTNER KEY MILESTONES

1. Conserve and 1.1 Ensure NMDDC NMDDC • LBAP actions and BIPs ehance the rich delivers on the reviewed annually biodiversity of the statutory biodiversity district for both duty through implementation of the current and future LBAP, delivery of generations internal BIPs and input into relevant projects and programmes

1.2 Develop a Local NMDDC, RoG, MHT, • Non-native Invasive Non-native Invasive NIHE, SLLP Species Strategy Species Strategy drafted by April 2019 • Local problem areas identified and control options/funding investigated by September 2019

1.3 Participate in and All relevant partners • Two projects ongoing encourage landscape- by 2020 scale biodiversity conservation projects across the district

2. Educate and raise 2.1 Host and promote a NMDDC, RSPB, UW, • Biodiversity events programme of SLLP, NT and RoG included in weekly awareness of the biodiversity themed ‘what’s on guides’ importance and events, talks and from the visitors variety of biodiversity workshops information centres and found within the updated quarterly on Newry, Mourne and Council and Biodiversity Down district Northern Ireland websites and Facebook pages • Other events to be fed through Biodiversity Officer for publicising on NMDDC website and social media pages and Biodiversity Northern Ireland pages

45 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE KEY ACTIONS LEAD PARTNER KEY MILESTONES

2.2 Publicise NMDDC, SLLP, MHT, • As required information about RoG and others biodiversity through the media using press releases and other media opportunities

2.3 Encourage national All relevant partners • Seasonal recording and regional wildlife schemes promoted recording schemes and every year, such as the the submission of all Big Garden Birdwatch, wildlife records to Big Butterfly Count CEDaR and National Biodiversity Data Centre

2.4 Produce local All relevant partners • Minimum of one biodiversity produced per year interpretation and signs at sites of wildlife interest across the district

2.5 Assist local schools NMDDC, RoG, RSPB • As required with relevant eco- schools targets, such as biodiversity and school grounds objectives

3.1 Help and signpost NMDDC, RoG, SLLP, • Minimum of three 3. Encourage local local communities in MHT projects or events ownership of Newry, developing wildlife annually Mourne and Down projects, such as district's biodiversity planting mini woodland, creating patches of wildflower meadow or organising wildlife themed events

3.2 Provide practical All relevant partners • As requested advice, encouragement and support to key stakeholders, local environmental organisations and communities

46 Local Biodiversity Action Plan 2018-2022

STRATEGIC OBJECTIVE KEY ACTIONS LEAD PARTNER KEY MILESTONES

3.3 Highlight All relevant partners • Regular email opportunities for circulars and press people to get involved releases on local in nature conservation opportunities and and outdoor activities success stories which in turn leads to better mental and physical health

4. Protect and Fully implement AONB RoG, SLLP, MHT, • The full success of the conserve designated Management Action NMDDC, DAERA and implementation sites Plans others programme will be determined by external funders

Partner Abbreviations Glossary NMDDC AONB Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty RoG ASSI Ring of Gullion AONB and Landscape Partnership Area of Special Scientific Interest MHT BIPs Mourne Heritage Trust Biodiversity Implementation Plans NIHE DfI Rivers Northern Ireland Housing Executive Department of Infrastructure Rivers SLLP LBAP Strangford Lough and Lecale Partnership Local Biodiversity Action Plan RSPB LNR The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds Local Nature Reserve UW MCZ Ulster Wildlife Marine Conservation Zone NT NR The National Trust Nature Reserve DAERA NNR Department of Agriculture, Environment National Nature Reserve and Rural Affairs RAMSAR Convention on Wetlands Site SAC Special Area of Conservation SPA Special Protection Area

Murlough bluebells @ Ronald Surgenor 47 Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Circlecc.com - 120084

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