Concerns raised over impact of quad bikes on wildlife
Residents and a local councillor have raised concerns that quad bike riding in Lisnagra Woods near Muff, County Donegal, is damaging habitat and disturbing wildlife. They say the activity is making parts of the woodland difficult to use for walkers and families, while threatening species including red squirrels and pine martens; the issue matters particularly as animals prepare for winter.
Margaret Peoples said riders had been cutting up the woodland throughout the summer, damaging the forest floor, undergrowth and food chain, and creating disruptive noise for birds and mammals. Sinn Féin councillor Terry Crossan said some areas had become “an absolute quagmire” and warned of risks from high-speed vehicles near families; he has contacted Coillte, which manages 440,000 hectares of mainly forested land in Ireland, and An Garda Síochána.
- Quad bikes are reportedly damaging Lisnagra Woods and disturbing wildlife.
- Red squirrels and pine martens are among the species affected.
- Concerns have been raised with forestry managers and police.
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Quad bikes are four-wheeled off-road vehicles often used on farms and for recreation. When ridden repeatedly in woodland, they can churn up soil and plants, create deep muddy tracks and make paths harder to use.
Lisnagra Woods is near Muff in County Donegal and is managed by Coillte, the Irish state forestry company. Woodlands can provide food and shelter for animals such as red squirrels, pine martens, birds and smaller mammals, particularly as they prepare for colder months.
The Gardaí are Ireland’s police service, while local councillors can raise concerns with public bodies responsible for land and safety. Questions around off-road riding commonly involve access rules, public safety and the protection of habitats.