The island has an unusually temperate
climate. Average air temperatures range from 15°C in July to 6°C in January.
The soil temperature does not usually drop below 6°C (end 2010 recorded a
prolonged period of snow, the first in living memory). Since grass will grow
once the temperature rises above 6°C, this means that the island (like the
neighbouringBurren) has one of the longest growing seasons in Ireland or
Britain, and supports diverse and rich plant growth. Late May is the sunniest
time,