The Beara rainforest: when healthy natural habitats are given a chance, 'the wild will return'

In an age of collapsing biodiversity, restoring and expanding those that remain has never been more urgent

Eoghan Daltun with his book 'An Irish Atlantic Rainforest' at his home near Eyeries in West Cork. Picture: Don MacMonagle

Have you heard of the ‘Beara Rainforest’ on the Beara peninsula?

It is a native Irish Oak wood, soaking in moist Atlantic Air, to such an extent that it is classed as a temperate Irish rainforest. Overhead, ancient Oak trees form the canopy layer, mingling with Birch, Holly, Ash and other native trees. Big branches reach out in all directions, carpeted in luscious mosses and lichens. Ferns drape down from every available space.