Do you have any idea how many housing areas in Ireland have a beautiful lake within their estate?

Not many I’m guessing. In which case Kilminchy is very lucky to have three lakes within the confines of our estate. The lakes bring so much of the beauty of nature right to our doorstep.

Kilminchy lakes are teeming with wildlife, some more noticeable than others. The most prominent being the swans that call our lakes their home. In recent weeks there was a mixture of happiness and tragedy as the female (the Pen) had a tragic accident while landing during the recent Storm Hannah. Despite the best efforts of our friends in the Kildare Animal Foundation, the swan died just days before the eggs in their nest were due to hatch. Happily, the male (Cob) swan did the necessary and days later four tiny cygnets appeared. So, days after one death, four new lives arrived in Kilminchy Lake. The circle of life continues.

You will also see many other species including Moorhens with their chicks and a vast array of wild flowers. Kilminchy Lakes were built by man but taken over by nature. If you haven’t taken time to visit this beautiful local amenity, now would be a good time to see what natural beauty is on our doorstep and apart from the scenic beauty the lakes provide, children can learn so much about nature and our environment here. As always, remember that water needs to be treated with respect so make sure children are accompanied at all times near the lakes.   

A big thank you to Portlaoise photographer J Osborne Images for the use of some of his fantastic wildlife photos and to Edel Maunsell for her flora photos. Why not submit your photos to our Facebook page and if you live in Kilminchy and are not already a member of our Facebook group, join our growing community today!