Whilst the keen bird watchers amongst you might not generally walk around looking at your feet, now is the time to do so.  The fungi for which the Reserve is renowned, is really coming into it's own.  Whichever trail you favour, you will never be far away from an eye catching specimen such as these Orange Peel Fungus (Aleuria aurantia).

The early autumn is also a good time to observe spider species, particularly when their magnificent webs are dew laden or illuminated, as here.

Whilst on a recent Butterfly Transect, although few are now on the wing, there are plenty of interesting alternatives such as this Black Slug (Arion ater) enjoying a snack.

During our Wednesday Work Party on 25th September, an unexpected consequence of our continuing to clear invasive birch and sweet chestnut, to enable regeneration of the heathland heather, was to reveal various fungi hidden amongst the leaf litter.  Gareth was lucky to find and photograph these attractive Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria) specimens.  Meanwhile, Brian, Michael and Dave also worked tirelessly through the allotted area, sawing and piling the offending trees.  The weather was once again kind (as it so often is on Work Party days!) which made for a pleasant and productive day - thank you all.