Stonesby Quarry facts for kids
| Site of Special Scientific Interest | |
 |
|
| Area of Search | Leicestershire |
|---|---|
| Interest | Biological |
| Area | 3.2 hectares (7.9 acres) |
| Notification | 1983 |
| Location map | Magic Map |
Stonesby Quarry is a special natural area in Leicestershire, England. It covers about 3.2 hectares (which is roughly the size of five football fields!). This site is officially known as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) because it's super important for its amazing plants and wildlife.
This beautiful quarry is also part of a larger nature reserve, managed by the Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust. They work hard to protect this unique habitat and the creatures that live there.
Contents
Why Stonesby Quarry is a Special Place
Stonesby Quarry is a "biological" SSSI, meaning its main importance comes from its living things, especially its plants. It's a fantastic example of a natural grassland habitat.
A Look at Ancient Rocks
The ground at Stonesby Quarry is made of Jurassic Lincolnshire Limestone. Imagine rocks that formed millions of years ago, when dinosaurs roamed the Earth! This ancient limestone helps create the perfect soil for many special plants to grow.
Amazing Plants You Can Find
The grassland here is home to a wide variety of beautiful and sometimes rare plants. These include:
- Autumn gentian: A lovely purple flower that blooms in the fall.
- Cowslip: A bright yellow flower that looks like a small bunch of keys.
- Dwarf thistle: A unique thistle that grows very close to the ground.
- Small scabious: A delicate purple flower that attracts many insects.
- Pyramidal orchid: A striking pink or purple orchid with flowers shaped like a pyramid.
- Clustered bellflower: A pretty blue flower with blossoms that grow in bunches.
These plants make Stonesby Quarry a vibrant and important place for nature conservation.
Visiting Stonesby Quarry
If you want to explore this natural wonder, there's a public footpath that goes right through the site. You can access it from the nearby village of Waltham on the Wolds. It's a great way to see the unique plants and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
