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Bog spider
(Dolomedes fimbriatus) |
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The bog spider is relatively frequent on blanket bogs where it is generally found close to bog pools. It is a large species which has distinctive yellow/white bands down its brown body.
It waits along the margins of pools and feels for vibrations on the water surface. Once an insect lands on the surface it darts out and catches its prey. |
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Dragonflies |
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Dragonflies are among the most spectacular of all the creatures of the bogland.
They spend their early years as an aquatic nymph stage, feeding on a range of small aquatic animals in bog pools. These nymphs then develop into the spectacular adult dragonflies which live only for a couple of months.
Dragonflies are especially common is areas of cutover blanket bog where there are larger areas of open water in which to complete their life cycle. At least 12 species of dragonfly are known to occur on Irish bogs. |
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Otter
(Lutra lutra) |
Although otters have a widespread distribution in Ireland , the lakes and river associated with blanket bogs are one of their favoured habitats.
They typically feed on fish which inhabit lakes and rivers and their droppings are often seen along water margins.
Ireland is considered to contain one of the healthiest populations of otters in Europe and the species is protected by law. |
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Hen harrier
(Circus cyaneus) |
The hen harrier is a large bird of prey which is mainly confined to upland blanket bog areas. The male birds are especially conspicuous due to their striking blue-grey plumage with black wing tips.
They tend to occur in blanket bog areas where there is some coniferous forestry, especially if that forestry is young and developing.
Over recent decades there have been great fluctuations in numbers of hen harriers due mainly to changes in habitat. |
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