The Coast

Belfast Lough

The coastline of the Causeway Coast and Glens ranges from the rocky shores and sea cliffs of the north coast to the dynamic sand dune systems of Magilligan and the sheltered muddy shores and saltmarshes of Lough Foyle, Larne and Belfast loughs. These are some of the most inspiring and wildlife rich habitats in the area.

The colourful flowers of the cliffs and rocky shores of the North East coast are appreciated by thousands of visitors each year. In spring the blue flowers of spring form a carpet in the short cropped turf, whilst in summer there is a colourful display of sea pinks, sea campion, wild thyme and bird's foot trefoil. Thousands of seabirds such as guillemot, puffin and kittiwake visit the cliffs in the spring and summer to breed. The number of seabirds found in Rathlin is particularly significant with around 143,000 breeding birds visiting the cliffs each year. Different parts of the shoreline provide breeding grounds for other rare birds such as the peregrine falcon and chough.

Offshore the coastal area is home to both grey and common seal porpoise and dolphin. From time to time basking sharks and small whales also visit the area.

Edible Crab

The Intertidal Mudflats are home to countless millions of small seashore animals including lugworms, shrimps, small shellfish and larger mussels. These provide an immense food resource for coastal birds which are attracted in huge numbers to feed on the mudflats, especially during migration in spring and autumn and throughout the winter months. Wading birds such as the curlew ,oystercatcher and lapwing are among the commoner birds relying on this source of food which also attracts many species of ducks, geese and swans.

The north coast is famous for it's unspoiled sandy beaches which are enjoyed by visitors throughout the year. Associated with these beaches are some of Ireland's most important sand dune systems including Magilligan, Portstewart, Bushfoot and Whitepark Bay. In Spring and Summer wildflowers such as wild thyme, harebell, eyebright and ragwort help to bring these dune landscapes to life. Special orchids and the beautiful white flowered grass of Parnassus can sometimes be found in the damp flat areas between the dunes known as dune slacks.