Marine Life
Scattery Island isn’t just rich in history —it’s alive with nature
The waters surrounding the island are part of the Lower Shannon Special Area of Conservation. This stretch of water is home to one of Europe’s largest group of resident bottlenose dolphins. On calm days, you might even spot them from the shoreline.
The island’s shoreline also attracts curious seals andn otters, while the rocky seabed surrounding the island supports a variety of seaweeds, including species commonly associated with kelp forests, providing vital shelter and food for marine life. Beneath the waves, this underwater world is as storied as the ruins.
On the island itself, nature thrives in quiet harmony. Salt marshes, meadows, and scrublands support a surprising diversity of life—from wildflowers and native grasses to butterflies, rabbits, and small mammals. Birdlife is abundant too, with nesting gulls, kestrels overhead, and occasional sightings of the protected Hen Harrier.
Scattery is uninhabited, but far from empty. It’s a place where wildlife flourishes, undisturbed, and where each visitor is asked to tread gently—to observe, not intrude, and to leave no trace behind.
Leave no Trace
Take only the memories
In keeping with our Sustainability & Conservation code, please help protect this delicate environment. Refrain from picking or uprooting wild plants, avoid disturbing nesting birds, and always take your litter home with you. Your care ensures that Scattery Island remains a pristine sanctuary for future generations.
Resources
Download Resources
To discover more about the incredible variety of plants and wildlife on Scattery Island, download our full species list below.