Seal in Belfast's river Lagan

Linda McKee
Friday, 24 April 2009

It could be an image from a nature lover’s paradise in an exotic international location.

A large grey seal hauls himself from the river onto the shore for a rest in the sun after a stressful morning chasing fish.

Instead, this is the image that reveals just how much the River Lagan has been transformed over the past 16 years.

The seal was pictured as far up the river as the Stranmillis Quay.

And a new tourism trail launched by Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie, uncovers how the seal now shares the river with a wealth of wildlife, including terns, eels, mullet, flounder and thousands of starlings.

The minister said salmon have even been spotted leaping the fish pass at Stranmillis Weir. On occasion they have been pursued by the grey seal which has become a familiar sight in the river.

Ms Ritchie unveiled new signage along the river telling a wildlife story specific to each point. Among the wildlife projects completed by the Department’s River Management Team are a tern island, a duck raft and 17 nest boxes — all of which were built from recycled materials including driftwood retrieved from the river.

Signage also draws attention to the thousands of starlings which roost under the Albert Bridge every night. At the height of winter, up to 70,000 starlings can roost under the bridge, creating a magnificent spectacle as they wheel above the river at dusk.

“Not so long ago the Lagan was filthy. Those days have gone. Now we have trout and salmon in its waters. We have rich biodiversity and wildlife on its shores,” Ms Ritchie said.

The new signage commissioned by the Minister has been erected at four locations along the river at Lagan Weir, Hauler’s Way, McConnell Weir and Governor’s Bridge.

“The signage will raise awareness of the local habitat and wildlife. It will be a biodiversity treasure trove,” Ms Ritchie said.

“It will also encourage local communities to gain a greater insight and respect for the Lagan and its special environment.

“I encourage people to go on this nature trail we have created and enjoy the river.”

http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/seal-in-belfasts-river-lagan-14280197.html