Second fungus of 2025 - Turf Mottlegill

A couple fruiting in the West Field- these are essentially dung fungi so can occur in the Spring. They are very similar to the Brown Mottlegill but have a black spore print whereas the Brown Mottlegill has a very dark brown spore print.

Fox hunting rabbits

I guess it must be fox cubs back in the den that's causing it but there was a fox looking for prey in the day time which seems to occur at this time of year. I'm happy for a bit more control over the rabbit population although it is lower that it was before the mixy outbreak in late 2024, but foxes need surprise as they don't seem to have the speed needed.

First fungus of 2026

Often seen early in the year is the Fragrant Funnel (Clitocybe fragrans) which is easily indentifiable due to its strong aniseed smell. Just one small specimen in the East Field. (Old photo)

First Orchid rosette - 28th March

I think this is the earliest I have seen an orchid rosette - all previous funds were April or later. In fact today on the 29th I have seen five more. Whether that is weatrher related or an effect of climate change, or maybe just me getting better at spotting them I don't know. I can't really take it as a sign of a prolific year at this early stage.

Wild Daffodils

This year we have possibly the best show I've seen and just a few yards away in Manor Wood.

New Species - Black Snail Beetle

An invertebrate expert was on site today finding all sorts of tiny things under rocks. In the slightly larger category was a pair of Snail Beetles ( Phosphuga atrata) which were overwintering under a stone in the low wall in front of the house. He's coming back in April to find lots more invertebrates.

Frogspawn

Here and lots of it - certainly more than last year. I shall move some to the new pond although I am not certain that it is yet able to support tadpole development. I haven't seen a lot of frogs but they are definitely a few resident.