Merrys Meadows
Details
Wildlife Highlights
Common and Heath Spotted-orchids are present plus the rare Frog Orchid. This is probably the last site in Leicestershire and Rutland where this species can still be found. Pepper-saxifrage, Saw-wort and Adder's Tongue can also be found. The Chimney Sweeper, a day flying moth, can be abundant.
Description
This nature reserve covers 12.6 hectares and is a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). It represents an island of unimproved grassland amidst arable or improved ley grass. It has not received any artificial fertilisers or herbicides and is grazed by sheep or cattle and cut for hay.As well as the dry, unimproved grassland, the site has four field ponds several hedges. It supports a fine array of wildflowers, including orchids, with common and great crested newts in the ponds.
Latest Records
| Common Name | Latin Name | Date Recorded | Recorded By |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frog Orchid | Coeloglossum viride | 16/06/2010 | David Gray |
| Green-winged Orchid | Anacamptis morio | 10/05/2009 | Mark Skevington |
| Adder's Tongue Fern | Ophioglossum vulgatum | 10/05/2009 | Mark Skevington |
| Bloody-nosed Beetle | Timarcha tenebricosa | 10/05/2009 | Mark Skevington |
Getting There
The site is in north-east Rutland between Greetham and Stretton. Visitors should park near the T junction opposite Great Lane then walk the track for about 400m to the entrance. Please keep to the path and respect the hay crop between April and July.
Further Information
Managed By
Latest Images
Species List
| Group | Common Name | Latin Name | Last Seen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beetles | Bloody-nosed Beetle | Timarcha tenebricosa | 10/05/2009 |
| Ferns & Horse-tails | Adder's Tongue Fern | Ophioglossum vulgatum | 10/05/2009 |
| Wildflowers | Green-winged Orchid | Anacamptis morio | 10/05/2009 |
| Wildflowers | Frog Orchid | Coeloglossum viride | 16/06/2010 |