Hi all, another busy week, but far less rain than I was expecting so pretty pleased about that!
Work continues at Swell Wood, but it looks like we’re on track to finish the thinning in time before the herons return to their nesting area. It’s amazing how much difference a little light makes!
As promised, midweek we got stuck into some hedge-laying - minus the laying. The hedge in question was overrun with bramble, so we spent the day clearing it out just to get to the blackthorn behind. As soon as we’ve opened it up enough, we’ll start the laying process; hopefully that can start soon.
RSPB Staff
I’ve spotted a few different fungi about the reserves this week. I’m no expert (not even close!) but believe the first two to be King Alfred’s cakes (Daldinia concentrica) and jelly ear (Auricularia auricula-judae) respectively, and the third I’ve been semi-reliably informed could be sulphur tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare) - feel free to correct me though! All three are widespread and common, but for me they’re still exciting nonetheless!
More impressive though is Assistant Warden Paul’s find; what we think is cobalt crust (Terana caerulea). This species is uncommon in England but the vivid dark blue colouring should make it easy to recognise, although the intensity does fade with age.
Next week will likely be more of the same, hopefully finishing up the coppice plot at Swell Wood, and more focus on the hedge-laying. See you then.
Luke