Concerns raised over impact of quad bikes on wildlife

Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of quad bike riders on wildlife in a woodland near Muff, County Donegal, in the Republic of Ireland. Margaret Peoples from Carnamoyle stated that quad bikes have been visiting Lisnagra Woods throughout the summer. She explained that the quad bikes are causing significant damage to the woodland, making it difficult for families and dog walkers to enjoy the area.

The heavy vehicles are also cutting up the forest floor, which negatively affects plants and wildlife. The noise disturbance caused by the quads is particularly concerning for a colony of red squirrels, especially as they gather and store food for the winter. Peoples noted that these quads have been causing damage every weekend and turning the woodland into a nearly unusable area for visitors.

The damage to the forest floor and undergrowth is detrimental to the survival of the woods, the food chain, and the seeds and birds. The noise pollution is also affecting bird life, reducing the bird song that was once present. Croslin, a Sinn Féin councillor, expressed concerns over the quad bikes with Coillte Ireland, the forestry company responsible for managing 440,000 hectares of forested land in Ireland, as well as An Garda Síochána, the Irish police service.

Croslin highlighted the potential dangers to families walking in the woods due to the high-speed vehicles traveling through the area. He emphasized the severe loss of habitat and detrimental impact on wildlife, especially red squirrels and pine martens. Croslin has contacted Coillte and Gardaí about the repeated incidents and hopes for immediate action to address the issue.