Pooreens in Caherlistrane & Kilcoona

A pooreen, or ‘sheep creep’, is a purpose built low arch in a stone wall, made to allow the free passage of sheep between fields, while restricting other larger animals, such as cattle or horses. They would also be used by wildlife, such as hares, foxes and pheasants.  Often built with a lintel stone at the top, many are now boarded up with loose stones and no longer in use.

We currently know of fifteen pooreens in the area, with examples in Ballycolgan, Ballybaun, Ballydonnellan, Mausrevagh, Kilroe, Pollnahallia and Raheen. The Kilroe pooreen, with its pointed arch, is particularly unusual.

 

Please Note: All of the pooreens listed here are on provate property and should not be assessed without prior permission from the landowner.