Biodiversity in Newry and Mourne

Newry and Mourne holds a wide range of important habitats and species. Of the 40 Northern Ireland priority habitats at least half occur in the district. Examples include blanket bog, Oakwood, montane heath, mesotrophic lakes and coastal vegetated shingle. Each of these habitats supports its own range of important plants and animals. In Newry and Mourne, priority species include the red grouse, Irish hare, basking shark and juniper. Once the audit is completed, habitats and species most at risk of decline, or of 'local' importance throughout the district can be identified. Action plans will then focus on maintaining and enhancing these chosen priorities.