12. Nature Stands

Oak Woodlands -  Our native oak woodlands of Derrycunnihy form some of the oldest and most extensive native woodlands in Ireland and northern Europe.

In recent times staff members of Killarney National Park have undertaken a project to collect acorns from this area. Over 30,000 acorns have been collected under the supervision of Horticulturist Gerry Murphy and Head Gardener Stephen Moore.

​

Potting up all of these acorns is a mammoth task but this work ensures that our native oak  woodlands will survive and thrive for centuries to come. The acorns germinate in the Spring. In the Summer they are placed outside, where they will spend at least two more seasons before being planted out.

​

Other tree species, including Yew, Birch, Holly and Alder are also being collected.

Rhododendron Control in Killarney National Park

There are over 900 species of Rhododendron found worldwide. Only one, the purple headed Rhododendron ponticum, causes major problems within Killarney National Park. It       

is an invasive shrub.  

​

Each flower head produces between 3000-7000 seeds and so it spreads very easily throughout woodlands and other habitats. It out competes our native flora and dramatically reduces species diversity  .

Rhododendron ponticum also forms dense thickets and shades out light, thus preventing woodland regeneration.

​

In 2023, clearance and maintenance of 1400 acres of Rhododendron ponticum was carried out in Killarney  National Park.

Deer - Our indigenous herd of red deer, the largest in the country, are among the most important of the mammals found within Killarney National Park. Red Deer in Co. Kerry have a continuous bloodline dating back over 4000 years. 

The smaller Sika Deer were introduced here in 1865 as a gift from Lord Powerscourt, Co .Wicklow, to Lord Kenmare.  Killarney Sika Deer are recognised as one of the purest herds outside of Japan.  Other important mammals found within Killarney National Park include, the otter, Irish hare and red squirrel.

Learn about the wonderful woodland habitats within Killarney National Park, including
Reenadinna Yew Woodland, Oak Woodlands and Alder Carr Woodlands.

Learn about the various species of Fungi found within Killarney National Park. Discover the diverse range of Flora and Fauna that are present in our woodlands. Our Conservation Rangers are available to talk about the range of species associated with the Woodland habitats in Killarney National Park.

Discover more about the amazing birds that can be found here in the National Park; White Tailed Eagle and Peregrine Falcon to the Great Spotted Woodpecker and Cuckoo, there are lots of interesting birds to be discovered all around the National Park. See the White Tailed Eagle specimen and nest and a Great Spotted Woodpecker nest.