The Inch Levels nature reserve on Inch Island continues to draw visitors throughout the winter season, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the scenic walking trails and abundant birdlife.

The reserve, managed by the National Parks and Wildlife Service, is one of the most important wetland sites in County Donegal. The mudflats and saltmarshes provide vital habitat for overwintering birds, including significant populations of whooper swans, greylag geese, and various wading birds.

Winter Wildlife

January is an excellent time for birdwatching at Inch Levels. The mild winter has seen good numbers of wildfowl on the reserve, with recent counts recording:

• Over 200 whooper swans
• Large flocks of greylag geese
• Curlew, redshank, and lapwing on the mudflats
• Occasional sightings of hen harriers hunting over the marshes

Walking the Trail

The circular walking trail at Inch Levels offers approximately 5km of easy walking on well-maintained paths. The route takes in views across Lough Swilly to Rathmullan and the Fanad Peninsula.

Visitors are reminded to stay on marked paths to avoid disturbing wildlife, particularly during the sensitive winter feeding period.