The Rich Biodiversity of Altamont Gardens and Estate
Altamont Estate and Gardens covers 16 hectares, and includes a garden centre, formal and informal gardens, grasslands, and treeline and woodland habitats leading to the banks of the River Slaney. Ecologist Mark Desmond presents its interesting biodiversity which includes the Slaney river which flows along the eastern boundary of the estate and is protected under the Slaney River Valley Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
During his talk Mark introduces each of the habitats, including oak woodland, wet and dry grasslands, hedgerows, treelines and ponds. These habitats also support a number of species protected under the Irish Wildlife Act, including Badger, Irish Hare, Stoat, Pine Martin, Hedgehog and Pygmy Shrew. Several bat species have been recorded on the estate, with potential for bat roosts in buildings and trees. A wide variety of invertebrates including bees, butterflies and damsel flies have been noted at Altamont.
Several bat species have been recorded on the estate, with potential for bat roosts in buildings and trees. A wide variety of invertebrates including bees, butterflies and damsel flies will be discussed.
The site is managed by the OPW with special interests of the site including architectural and archaeological categories and where measures are outlined in which the local habitats, flora and fauna can be protected and enhanced while also continuing the use of the site as a historical house and gardens, a public amenity, and a working farm..
