You may wish to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the Belfast Hills, however if you stop and look more closely you will discover that the hills are indeed alive.

 

In late spring the Belfast Hills burst into life with bluebells and violets, followed by a range of orchids and other beautiful wildflowers.  

In the summer months these flowers are associated with the buzzing and fluttering of various bees, butterflies and moths, while the quiet valleys and slopes of the Belfast Hills are home to an array of rabbits, badgers and foxes. 

If you are fortunate you might see Irish hare or a red squirrel - species highlighted as government priorities in need of conserving.  

As you walk through the Belfast Hills you may well spot one of the large birds of prey hovering overhead, observe a meadow pipit rise from a grass patch or hear a Grasshopper Warbler singing in nearby trees.

To find out what wildlife you may see in the different sites which are open to the public throughout the Belfast Hills click on the below links: