Bog Meadows comprises the 16 remaining hectares of the Blackstaff River flood plains, and is therefore of historical significance. Despite its position, wedged between Falls Road housing and M1 Motorway, it is extremely valuable for wildlife and is widely used for environmental education. Dsignated as a Local Nature Reserve, Bog Meadows contains open water, reed beds, marsh, meadow and alder woodland.
What is there to see?
Birds including coot, dabchick, tufted duck and moorhen on the open water, and heron and snipe in the reed beds. The scrub and meadow areas attract goldfinch, reed bunting, stonechat and sedge warbler. Fish, including stickleback and amphibians, including frog and smooth newt, in ponds and streams. Insects, including common darter dragonfly and many butterflies. Aquatic plants, including branched bur-reed, water starwort, watercress, brooklime, marsh marigold, lesser spearwort, water mint, marsh bedstraw, marsh ragwort and celery-leaved buttercup.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring and summer for migrant warblers and dragonflies; winter for waders.
Who looks after it?
The Ulster Wildlife Trust
Where can you get more information?
From the Ulster Wildlife Trust visit www.ulsterwildlifetrust.org.uk
