Muckanagh

Muckanagh was acquired in 2022 and became NádúrNua’s first reforestation project, encompassing 102 acres near Mohill in County Leitrim. It had previously been a Sitka Spruce plantation clear-felled in 2017.

A detailed ecological assessment was undertaken in 2022 prior to reforestation. The report confirmed a significant recovery in biodiversity over the previous five years with existing wildlife (Badgers, Foxes, Pine Martens, Hares, Hedgehogs and Bats) and birdlife (Kestrels, Meadow Pipits, Linnet and Willow Warblers).

In early 2023, Muckanagh was replanted with 66,000 trees, 67% Native (Oak, Alder, Birch, Rowan, Scots Pine and Hazel) and 33% Sitka Spruce. Kestrel, Swift, House Martin and Bat boxes have been installed within the derelict house and its outbuildings  A Pine Marten den has also been positioned within a bog woodland.

After three years of planting, there has been a significant increase in biodiversity in the woodland. We have recorded 43 species of birds, 45 species of wild flowers, five species of butterflies, six species of bats and five species of mammals.

Muckanagh will become a mature, species-diverse 63 acre woodland of mostly Oak, Birch, Sitka Spruce, Alder, Scot’s Pine, Hazel, Rowan and Holly.

Muckanagh is “Muiceanagh” in Irish, “a place where pigs were kept” and dates back to 1622 as a townland.