Wildlife reserves and designated landscapes

Nature reserves

Wildlife is protected in nature reserves. They cover a range of habitats including coastal areas, dunes, cliffs, moors, meadows and woodlands.

• Nature reserves

National and other statutory nature reserves

National Nature Reserves and other statutory nature reserves are areas of prime importance for flora, fauna or features of geological or other special interest. They are managed for conservation and to offer special opportunities for study or research.

For a list of nature reserves and details of each, visit the following page:

• Nature reserves on Forest Service land

Local nature reserves

Local Nature Reserves are areas set aside for biodiversity and where people can enjoy wildlife. They are an impressive natural resource, making an important contribution to biodiversity. Local councils have the power to name land as a Local Nature Reserves.

Ulster Wildlife nature reserves

Ulster Wildlife looks after 18 nature reserves across Northern Ireland. The reserves help conserve wildlife and allow people to share in their beauty.

• Find a nature reserve

Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) nature reserves

The RSPB also manages several nature reserves. These are ideal for bird watchers and nature lovers. Some have a wide range of facilities suitable for family days out, while others have only minimal services on offer. To find out more, visit:

• Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB)

Country parks

Explore the countryside at one of Northern Ireland’s country parks.  With woodland and mountain walks, cycle trails, fabulous beaches and excellent visitor centres - it won't be a dull day out:

• Country parks

The National Trust

The National Trust is the largest private landowner in Northern Ireland. The charity manages around 12,000 hectares (46 square miles) of countryside and 200 kilometres of local coastline. 

• The National Trust 

Areas of Special Scientific Interest

Areas of Special Scientific Interest (ASSIs) include some of the most spectacular and beautiful habitats. They include large wetlands teeming with birds, wildflower meadows, shingle beaches, remote uplands, moorland and peat bogs. However, most are in private ownership. When an area is designated as an ASSI, a right of public access is not granted.

Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

Northern Ireland is famous for the quality and diversity of its landscape. Areas of outstanding quality are designated to make sure they are managed to help protect the landscape and to provide for public access and enjoyment. Northern Ireland does not have any National Parks.

• Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty

UNESCO designated sites

Northern Ireland has two UNESCO designated sites - The Giant’s Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site, and the Marble Arch Caves UNESCO Global Geopark.

• Giant's Causeway and Causeway Coast World Heritage Site 
• Giant's Causeway National Nature Reserve
• Marble Arch Caves Global Geopark

Report wildlife sightings online

In Northern Ireland, the Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (CEDaR) collates wildlife records for both native and non-native species.

You can record your sightings on its website either as a single record event or you can register with them and send in details through a free online account.

• Record wildlife sightings online

More useful links

• Forests
• Coasts and beaches 
• Parks and green spaces
• Attractions
• Outdoor recreation and sport
• The Countryside Code