Hard
rock quarry wetlands
Shallow waters in the base of hard rock quarries can develop
an interesting fen vegetation with a varied range of invertebrates,
bird and other animal life. Aquatic invertebrates such as water
beetles and dragonflies usually abound as do amphibians and
reptiles such as frogs, toads, newts and grass snake.
Hard rock quarry pools with deep water, sheer sides and with
little organic material provide small opportunity for wildlife
to become established. These deep pools whilst offering little
food for water birds do provide refuge areas where they can
escape predators and other disturbance.
The seepage of water from the quarry face over and down rock
provides a valuable micro-habitat for animals and plants that
only survive in these conditions.
Vegetated pools in a limestone quarry.
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