Concerns have been raised regarding the impact of quad bike riders on wildlife in Lisnagra Woods, near Muff, County Donegal, Republic of Ireland. Margaret Peoples, a resident of Carnamoyle, stated that quad bikes have been used in the area throughout the summer.
Peoples reported that the quad bikes are causing significant damage to the woodland, making it difficult for families and dog walkers to use. She added that the vehicles are cutting up the forest floor, which is impacting plants and wildlife, and that the noise and damage are particularly concerning for a colony of red squirrels as they gather food for winter.
Sinn Féin councillor Terry Crossan has raised these concerns with Coillte Ireland, the forestry company managing forested land in the Republic of Ireland, and An Garda Síochána, the Irish police service. Crossan highlighted potential dangers to families due to vehicles travelling at high speeds and stated that the activity is causing a severe loss of habitat and negatively affecting wildlife, especially red squirrels and pine martens.