Marden Quarry is an oasis of wildlife situated in the middle of an urban housing estate close to the coast. In 2005 it was awarded Local Nature Reserve Status and the reserve is popular with dog walkers and the general public.
A variety of wildfowl can be found such as Gadwall, Mallard, Pochard and Tufted Duck. Goldeneyes and at times Goosanders and Scaup are recorded in the winter. In 2012 a Lesser Scaup came to visit for a few months, which attracted a great deal of attention.
Coots and Moorhens often come pretty close, whilst the site’s resident feral Muscovy Duck can easily be found nearby. The site also hosts some well established woodland, which is home to a wide variety of woodland birds. In the spring and autumn this can attract migrants/vagrants. This has in the past included Firecrest, Red-breasted Flycatcher and Yellow-browed Warbler etc.
A Long-tailed Tit
At times this can be a great reserve to view Goldcrests and Long-tailed Tits. It is recommended visitors wear suitable footwear as it can be muddy in places. There is a car park adjacent to the reserve.
In 1990 a Black-throated Diver came to visit, which enabled local birders to enjoy this often distant seabird at closer quarters.
County
Tyne & Wear, North Tyneside.
Map Reference
NZ 355 715
Habitats
- Freshwater Lake
- Mature Woodland
- Limestone Grassland
Access
The reserve is open to the public. Paths can be muddy at times, so appropriate outdoor footwear is recommended.
Facilities
There are shops and toilets in the nearby towns of Whitley Bay or Tynemouth.
Parking
There is small car park at the main entrance.
Additional Information
The site is maintained by North Tyneside Council. For more information please visit the council’s website at www.northtyneside.gov.uk