Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve

About this route

Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve, managed by Devon Wildlife Trust (DWT), is a vital wildlife site in North Devon, known for its rich diversity of habitats, including wetland, heathland, and woodland. Originally a clay quarry, it has been transformed into an important nature reserve supporting a variety of rare and protected species. Notable residents include the marsh fritillary butterfly and southern damselfly, as well as a wide range of waterfowl that use the wetlands for breeding and feeding. The reserve is also home to rare plants and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature walks. DWT’s conservation efforts have helped restore the site, making it a key location for wildlife and a valuable resource for nature enthusiasts.

Getting Around

Facilities

Parking, Dog Friendly, Cycle friendly, Bird hides, Toilets, Picnic area, Accessible toilet

Terrain

Footpaths, bike trails, horse riding tracks.

Accessibility

Interesting information

The area from Meeth Quarry Nature Reserve to Cookworthy provides a vital ecological corridor for the wood white butterfly (Leptidea wood). This corridor connects essential habitats, including woodland edges, meadows, and scrubby grasslands, all of which are crucial for the wood white’s lifecycle. The butterfly’s larvae feed on plants like bastard-toadflax and common dog-violet, which thrive in open, semi-natural habitats found along this route. By preserving and enhancing this corridor, conservation efforts ensure that wood white populations can migrate, find food, and breed across suitable areas.