Opened in 1980 and originally the estate of the Christian Brothers industrial school, the Connemara National Park covers an area of a mere 8 square miles. Although very much a microcosm of the surrounding countryside, the Connemara National Park includes an exhibition on the boglands of the West of Ireland, an audio-visual introduction to the Park and nature trails. Diamond Hill, which appears as a prominent rocky dome, is fairly easy to reach at 442m. Western blanket bog and heathland are the main vegetation types, and heathers including the unusual St. Dabeoc's Heath clothe many of the mountainsides. Birdlife in the area is varied, and includes Meadow Pipits, Skylarks, Stonechats, Chaffinches, Robins and Wrens. The Kestrel is a fairly common bird of prey, whilst Sparrowhawk, Merlin and Peregrine are sometimes seen. Red Deer are currently being re-introduced, and a herd of the unique pure-bred Connemara ponies has also been established. Connemara ponies bred and reared in the Connemara National Park have the word ‘Park’ included in their names.