The Site in Dublin Bay features extensive intertidal mud and sand flats which extend for almost three kilometres at their widest, and an intertidal biogenic reef and a small section of saltmarsh. The sands support the largest stand of seagrass beds (Zostera noltii) on Ireland’s east coast. South Dublin Bay is the premier site in Ireland for the Mediterranean gull (Larus melanocephalus) and is a regular autumn roosting ground for significant numbers of terns. More than 1% of the global population of light-bellied brent goose (Branta bernicla hrota), black-tailed godwit (Limosa limosa ) and bar-tailed godwit (Limosa lapponica) are present in the Site. The proximity of the city of Dublin makes the Site a very popular recreational area, while bait-digging is a regular activity on the sandy flats. It is also important for educational and research purposes. The Site is subject to natural eutrophication and is threatened by the accumulation of organic material. It is also affected by disturbances from roads, land conversions and urban wastewater.