Sligo's Birding Sites:
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(7) Lough Gill
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Where
Lough Gill is sited roughly 2 kilometres east of Sligo town.
Lough Gill is sited roughly 2 kilometres east of Sligo town.
When
All year round
Introduction
Amongst the largest lakes in County Sligo, Lough Gill is around 8 kilometres long and 2 kilometres wide. The land surrounding the lake consists of mostly broadleaf or coniferous forest.
Birds
The lake itself attracts very little beside Cormorant, Mute Swan and Mallard, as most of the lake is to deep to provide good feeding for aquatic birds. However, the woodlands surrounding Lough Gill are more interesting. On the south shore is the woodland of Slishwood. While the shoreline forest here is composed of broadleaf trees, the higher altitudes are covered in coniferous forest. Mistle Thrush, Blackcap, Willow Warbler, Chiffchaff, Goldcrest, four Tit species and Treecreeper all breed. Both Common Redstart and Wood Warbler have been recorded here, but the area is not covered regularly. Common Crossbill have been recorded in the coniferous forests around the southern and western side of Lough Gill. On the northern shore, Hazelwood is the most interesting site. In addition to species mentioned above for Slishwood, Mistle Thrush, Spotted Flycatcher, Jay and Bullfinch breed here. Common Terns used to nest on Lough Gill, but were wiped out due to Mink predation.
Access by Car
The roads R286, R288 and R287 lead around Lough Gill and there are several car parks along the route from which it is possible to scan the lake. Hazelwood is reached by taking the signposted turn off the R286.
Access by Public Transport
There is a waterbus service to Parke’s Castle. Contact the Tourist Information Office for departure times or other information.
Viewpoints
Lough Gill can be viewed from the car parks, while several trails lead through the forests around the lake.
Maps and Photos
Lough Gill is covered by Ordnance Survey Ireland, Discovery Series Maps 16 and 25.