Conservation Designations

The Mourne AONB’s rich habitats and biodiversity are reflected in its many national and international conservation designations. Designations identify special features and highlight the need for their protection.

Eastern Mournes

The Eastern Mournes SAC is characterised by its rugged upland landscapes, supporting a mosaic of heath, blanket bog, and montane habitats. This area is important for its biodiversity, hosting rare plant species and providing vital breeding grounds for upland birds. Inland, the high Mournes boast one of Europe’s finest upland heathlands, filled with vibrant purple heather and other unique species.

Murlough National Nature Reserve

Murlough is designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Special Area of Conservation, recognising its rich dune habitats, diverse wildlife, and importance for overwintering birds. It is also host to one of Northern Ireland’s largest populations of marsh fritillary butterflies.

Carlingford Lough

Carlingford Lough is a true gem, home to large numbers of sandwich terns. Its mudflats provide vital feeding grounds for light-bellied brent geese and wading birds like oystercatchers and ringed plovers. Because of this, it holds both international Ramsar Site status and European Special Protection Area designation for birds.

Rostrevor Ancient Oakwood

Rostrevor’s ancient oakwood is designated as a National Nature Reserve and a Special Area of Conservation, reflecting its ecological importance as one of the best examples of native oak woodland in Northern Ireland. This mature woodland covers 41-acres on a steep, west-facing slope with views over Carlingford Lough. It nurtures a rich understorey of hazel, holly, and wildflowers such as toothwort and bird’s nest orchid.

Other sites of interest

Ballybannon Fen’s scrubland thrives with sedges, rushes, mosses, and common butterwort. The Shimna and Trassey rivers, along with the Slieve Croob Massif, receive protection under local planning regulations as Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance. Sites of Local Nature Conservation Importance (or SLNCIs) support important habitats, species, or geological features, contributing to both local natural heritage and wider biodiversity across the UK and Europe.