Bloody Oaks Quarry facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Rutland |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 1.2 hectares |
| Notification | 1983 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Bloody Oaks Quarry is a special natural area in Rutland, England. It's officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). This means it's a very important place for wildlife and plants. The quarry covers about 1.2 hectares, which is roughly the size of two football fields. It is located north-west of Great Casterton.
This amazing natural spot is owned and looked after by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. They work hard to protect the plants and animals that live here. The site was first recognized as an SSSI in 1983.
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What Makes Bloody Oaks Quarry Special?
Bloody Oaks Quarry is famous for its unique grassland. This grassland grows on Jurassic limestone, which is a type of rock formed millions of years ago. The soil here is rich in nutrients, making it a perfect home for many different plant species.
Grasses and Wildflowers
You'll find many interesting plants growing at Bloody Oaks Quarry. The main types of grasses are tor-grass and upright brome. But it's the wildflowers that really make the area colorful!
Some of the beautiful flowers you might see include:
- Rock-rose (Helianthemum chamaecistus) - a bright yellow flower that loves sunny, rocky places.
- Salad burnet (Sanguisorba minor) - a plant with small, reddish-purple flowers.
- Yellow-wort - another yellow flower that adds to the vibrant colors.
- Autumn gentian - a lovely purple flower that blooms later in the year.
These plants create a rich habitat for insects and other small creatures.
Visiting Bloody Oaks Quarry
Good news! Bloody Oaks Quarry is open to the public. This means you can visit and explore this special natural area for yourself. It's a great place to learn about local wildlife and enjoy the outdoors.
How Did It Get Its Name?
The name "Bloody Oaks Quarry" might sound a bit dramatic! It actually comes from a historical event. The name refers to the 1470 Battle of Losecoat Field. This battle, also known as the Battle of Empingham, was a significant event in English history.
There are also mentions of a "Bloody Oaks Wood" from around the year 1800. So, the name has been around for a long time, connecting this natural site to the past.
