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The Saltee Islands(Great Saltee and Little Saltee) are two small islands 5km from the coast of Kilmore Quay. The islands provide sanctuary for animals and a tourist attraction for Kilmore Quay.
Wildlife:
The two islands have many different animals, birds, and sea-life living on and near the islands. They are mostly known for being Ireland's largest bird sanctuary for Gannets, Gulls, Puffins, Cormorants, Razorbills, and Guillemots, but Soay sheep, Kerry cattle, and Fallow deer can be found grazing the land. There is also around 23 seals living near the Great Saltee.
History of the islands:
Throughout history the islands have provided hiding places for smugglers and outlaws as well as solitude for Christian hermits. The Little Saltee has also provided farming for the locals before the Second World War when farming was stopped. Nowadays though the Little Saltee is still being farmed by the owners, the Neale family. Excavation of Great Saltee in 1957 found a flint dating back to Neolithic times.
The Saltee Islands(Great Saltee and Little Saltee) are two small islands 5km from the coast of Kilmore Quay. The islands provide sanctuary for animals and a tourist attraction for Kilmore Quay.
