Tunstall Reservoir
About the Site
Tunstall Reservoir supports a small number of breeding great crested grebe, tufted duck, goosander, moorhen, coot, mallard and common sandpiper. Oystercatcher, redshank and lapwing sometimes roost on the dam. The Reservoir provides a regular winter roost venue for black-headed gulls and a maximum of 850 birds has been recorded. Ospreys have been recorded on a number of occasions and cormorants are regularly present in the winter.
Widgeon
The muddy margins of the Reservoir provide a habitat for the rare thread rush, which is typically found on the margins of lakes that have a fluctuating water level. Other marginal vegetation includes amphibious bistort and water horsetail.
Common butterflies that occur in the grasslands around Tunstall include small skipper, large skipper, large white, small white, green-veined white, small copper, red admiral, small tortoiseshell, peacock, comma, meadow brown and small heath.
Tunstall Reservoir
Location
Tunstall Reservoir is located north of Wolsingham. The approach road from the western end of the village is sign-posted.Grid reference NZ 065 412
Facilities
A public footpath follows the shoreline around the reservoir. There is a car park with toilets.Enquiries
Tunstall ReservoirNorthumbrian Water Limited
Abbey Road
Pity Me
Durham
DH1 5FJ
Telephone: 0870 2403549
Information kindly provided by Durham Bird Club.
