OXFORD ISLAND

A network of surfaced paths throughout Oxford Island provides easy walking through the different habitats allowing you to observe the plants birds and insect life of the area.  Each season provides something of interest to the bird watcher or plant enthusiast, young or old.

Two purpose built birdwatching hides offer outside views across Lough Neagh and Kinnego Bay.  The largest of these, Kinnego Hide, is situated in the reedbed at the waters edge, bringing the observer into the world of the water birds.

At certain times of the year, you will encounter the famous Lough Neagh Fly.  This non-biting midge fly is an essential part of the ecosystem of Lough Neagh (Chironomid midge) and an important source of food to resident and migratory birds.  Developing from a bloodworm that lives on the bed of Lough Neagh, the larval stage is preyed upon by fish, aquatic insects and birds.

Whether your favourite animal has 2 legs, 4 legs, 8 legs, feathers or fur, Oxford Island National Nature Reserve has a rich and varied biodiversity deserving of our protection.

Wildlife housekeeping – Help us to protect the fragile habitats.

• Stay on the surfaced paths
• Don’t step on the plants
• Leave the plants and flowers for everyone to enjoy.
• Keeps dogs on leads and away from the waters’ edge.
• Take your litter home

Lough Neagh is home to nationally and internationally species of plant and animals and is considered one of the most important wetland sites in the United Kingdom and Ireland. In order to protect the habitats and wildlife, a number of environmental designations have been put in place upon Lough Neagh and surrounding areas.  In this area the following designations apply.

• National Nature Reserve
• Area of Special Interest (ASSI)
• Special Protection Area (SPA)
• Special Area of Conservation (SAC)
• Ramsar Site

The designations are in place to protect the habitats and to give the wildlife protection from disturbance.  Under the Wildlife order (1984) it is illegal to harm or disturb the wildlife or cause an animal to move away from its nest or feeding area.

The Lough Neagh Discovery Centre offers a range of Conference rooms available for hire.

It also houses a small exhibition on the wildlife and biodiversity of Lough Neagh and Oxford Island National Nature Reserve.

Café and Toilet facilities are available in the centre

Centre opening times:  10am to 5pm

Café opening times: Wednesday to Sunday – 10am to 4pm

Telephone number: 028 3832 2205

Telephone number:  033005661016

For conference bookings:
LNDC Reception

The biodiversity Service of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Council is based at the Lough Neagh Discovery Centre. The team works across a wide range of areas contributing to the protection and enhancement of the natural environment of the Armagh, Banbridge and Craigavon Council area and the delivery of the Biodiversity Education programme.

The service also delivery a wide-ranging environmental education programmes to schools and groups visiting the centre and nature reserve. Throughout the year a range of events and activities are provided to engage visitors in the wildlife of the area and environmental issues and projects.

Biodiversity Education Services At Oxford Island

Fly Fact Sheet

Lough Neagh Facts Flyer

Butterflies at Oxford Island