Entering the mature Sitka spruce plantation the ground is noticeably springy underfoot due to peaty substrate. The source of the small stream seen at stop 4 is located nearby in the damp undergrowth.
Back on the track, a new plant can be seen in patches along the trackside – Devil’s bit scabious.
In late summer and Autumn, the pin cushion-like dark blue flower heads of the plant attract a range of pollinating insects. Devil’s bit scabious is also the food plant for the Marsh fritillary butterfly, a species that is declining across Europe and is protected under Irish and European law. While it has not previously been recorded at Moanbuan Woods, Marsh fritillary is known to occur in the Nagles Mountains, off to the northwest of the woods.
The margins of the track also contain Sheep’s bit and Heath milkwort at this location. Another delicate flower of acidic habitats, Heath milkwort can be seen usually in deep blue but also in pink and occasionally white.
You may spot the Common heath moth fluttering through the heathers next to the track.
