Special Interest
Vital
Statistics
ü 2.7 miles*1.7 miles
(4.3 km*2.7 km)
ü 84 inhabitants
ü highest
point: 629 ft (192 m)
ü 3.4 miles (5.5 km) of road and tracks
ü 9 miles (14.5 km) from Clare
Island
ü 9 miles (14.5 km) from
Inishbofin
ü 8.5 miles (13.7 km) from
Roonagh Quay, Co. Mayo
ü 11 miles (17.7 km) from
Cleggan, Co. Galway
Archaeology/History
Inishturk
ü
Three earthen forts (or Dúns) situated on the southern
shore: one is a promontory fort, on the eastern tip of the cove, Ooghmore. The other two
are less intact and are located nearby. ü Stone slabs at the foot of the easternmost fort, Dún Ballycraggy ü A possible standing stone of slate at the east of the church ü An old church site dedicated to St Columba in the graveyard ü A Napoleonic signal tower, on top of the highest point of the island (629 ft). The towers of Clare Island and Cleggan Head are visible from this point. |
Caher Island
Caher Island lies 3 miles (4.8 km) to the east of Inishturk. It is one of
the west coast holy islands and is still the site of an annual pilgrimage on the 15th of
August. There is a 5th century monastic
settlement, probably founded by St Patrick. ü A small medieval stone oratory ü A rectangular drystone wall or cashel ü A holy well on the western point of the island |
Geology
Four blocks of high ground are separated by fault lines running in a
general north-south direction. These faults form the main valleys of the island. |
Natural Heritage
The whole island is a National Heritage Area of national and european importance from a botanical and ornothological point of view. |
Flora
The
cliff flora is of international importance. The occurence of the slatage-sward vegetation
is a contributing factor. But, more specifically, Inishturk is the most northerly recorded
location for the wildflower, Spotted-Rock rose (or Tuberaria Guttata). It is a very
local and rare vascular plant. The Spotted-Rock rose likes open maritime heath, a
threatened habitat. It flowers from April to August. |
Birds
Ornithology enthusiasts will be enthralled by the number of
bird sanctuaries on the island. Guillemot, Puffin, Razorbill, Storm
Petrel, Manx, Shearwater, Peregrine Falcon, Kestrel, Chough, Raven, Rock Dove, colonies of
Shag, Gulls and Terns abound. Winter sees the return of the Brent and Baranacle Geese, while nesting waders include Curlew, Lapwing, Ringed Plover, Oystercatcher, Sandpipper, Mallard and Shelduck. |