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Compton Martin Ochre Mine (grid reference ST543566) is a 0.85 hectare geological and biological Site of Special Scientific Interest near the village of Compton Martin, Somerset, notified in 1988.
It is a Geological Conservation Review site.
[edit] Geological Interest
It is located on the north side of the Mendip Hills, immediately south west of Compton Martin village. The site comprises a network of underground tunnels and surface exposures on the eastern fringe of Compton Wood.[1]
Red ochre is an iron oxide mineral, which was used in paint-making. It is believed that the mine was owned by Mendi Oxide & Ochre Co. Ltd., of Wick.
[edit] Biological Interest
The mines are also used as a hibernation site by Greater Horseshoe Bats (Rhinolophus ferrumequinum). A rare and endangered species, the greater horseshoe bat is protected under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981 and is listed in Annex II of the 1992 European Community Habitats Directive.
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[edit] See also
[edit] External links
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Coordinates: 51.30667° N 2.65698° W