Lough Arrow

Lough Arrow is a large limestone lake that is nestled between three hills and lies partly within Co. Roscommon and partly within Co. Sligo. Typical lakeside vegetation of reeds, rushes and sedges occur as well as Water Mint, Water Horsetail, Marsh Marigold, and Yellow Iris.

Enclosing the lake area to the north and south are dry woodlands, where the predominant species include ash, blackthorn, sycamore and hawthorn.

The area surrounding Lough Arrow supports a regionally important population of wintering waterfowl. It is a prime site for breeding Great Crested Grebe and nesting duck species, including the rare Common Scoter, and the Red-breasted Merganser. Of all the large lakes in the west of Ireland, Lough Arrow supports the highest density of breeding Great Crested Grebe and Tufted Duck, and it is also home to the protected otter. The lake is also popular for game fishery and holds good stocks of Brown Trout and eels. The entire site is a designated Wildlife Sanctuary.