This isolated inland mountain range is the largest and most intact known area of mountain blanket bog in Ireland. It includes areas of well-developed hummock, hollow and pool systems. Several important rivers rise within the Site, including the second longest river in Ireland, the Barrow, and also the Delour and Silver rivers. The vegetation consists of a dwarf shrub and herb layer and extensive cover of Sphagnum moss. The Site supports a range of breeding birds, insects and mammals along with frogs, lizards and smooth newts. Together with its surrounding habitats, it is one of Ireland’s most important sites for the rare breeding hen harrier (Circus cyaneus). Other raptor species recorded are peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus) and merlin (Falco columbarius), while another emblematic bird is the red grouse (Lagopus lagopus). The Slieve Bloom Mountains are important for walkers, mountain bikers and birdwatchers. Threats include peat extraction and the spread of conifers.