burren LIFE

Habitats of the Burren

Habitat Type: Scrub and Woodland

Description: Hazel-dominated scrub is common in the Burren. Other species including blackthorn, whitethorn and holly are usually present and are dominant in some areas of scrub. Scrub exists both as dense stands and in mosaic with other habitats where it covers less than 50% of the area. Whilst mature hazel scrub is an important habitat for lichens and certain fungi including the rare hazel gloves fungus, its rapid encroachment onto calcareous grasslands and limestone heath is of concern. In some areas the scrub has, or is, developing into ash-hazel woodland.