An afternoon walk produced 1 new fungus species - Alder Bracket Fungus (Inonotus radiatus) near Small Pool.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 7th of December 2022 10:45:55 PM
Doc Brewster said
Sun Dec 4 9:48 PM, 2022
Another morning mainly concentrated on fungi and again a few new ones.
Newly found were Bitter Oysterling (Panellus stipticus) near Small Pool, Sulphur Disco (Bisporella sulfurina) in Gull Pool Wood, and Yellow Stagshorn Fungus (Calocera viscosa) on Shemmy Moss.
Re-photographed were Angel's Bonnet, Powdery Brittlegill, Hairy Curtain Crust, Turkeytail, and Collared Earthstar.
A Red Campion plant was freshly in flower in December.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Dec 1 9:57 PM, 2022
A morning on Newchurch Common.
I thought that my fungus walks were over but I had a good walk this morning. A few new species were added and other nice specimens photographed.
New for the patch were Common Jellyspot Fungus (Dacrymyces stillatus) and Frosty Bonnet (Mycena adscendens), both near Small Pool. Also new was a clump of Glistening Inkcaps (Coprinellus micaceus) near Big Pool.
Seen before but recorded today were Common Rustgill, Spectacular Rustgill, Hoof Fungus and Coral Spot Fungus (all Gull Pool Wood), Iodine Bonnet (Small Pool), Common Puffball and Blushing Bracket (both Big Pool), Collared Earthstar and Upright Coral Fungus (both Shemmy Moss) and Sulphur Tuft (Whitegate Way).
The Springtail Dictyrtomina ornata (probable) was seen on the Coral Spot Fungus in Gull Pool Wood.
John Williams said
Mon Nov 28 6:57 PM, 2022
Lapwing Hall Pool Chelford
The lunchtime sunshine tempted a single male Common Darter dragonfly into flight.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Nov 27 6:57 PM, 2022
A morning visit to Newchurch Common.
Fungi are getting scarcer now but a new species seen was Saffron Oysterling (Crepidotus crocophyllus) to the NE of Big Pool.
A Clouded Funnel was still present NE of Big Pool. Also seen was Ribbed Bell on the mossy meadow E.of Big Pool.
A new plant was Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum) in flower NE of Big Pool.
Doc Brewster said
Fri Nov 25 10:21 PM, 2022
A visit this morning to Newchurch Common produced a very late Common Darter dragonfly, flying near the entrance blocks.
John Williams said
Wed Nov 23 4:00 PM, 2022
Lunt Meadows NR
A single Water Vole was seen swimming across the River Alt, alongside the reserve.
John Williams said
Wed Nov 16 6:57 PM, 2022
Moore NR
A single Red Admiral butterfly seen on bushes alongside Pumphouse Flash at lunchtime.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Nov 13 9:57 PM, 2022
A couple of visits to Newchurch Common concentrated on birds this time!!
A couple of bits. A new fungus on the dungheap north of Big Pool, a Wrinkled Field Cap (Agrocybe rivlosa). Also on the dung was a Tarzetta sp. fungus, a tiny cup which may have bee impossible even with microscopy!
Other fungi seen before but photographed today included Common Dung Cup, Hare's Foot Inkcap and Witches Butter. A Suillia fungus feeding fly was again seen and photographed.
Doc Brewster said
Wed Nov 9 9:44 PM, 2022
Another sunny morning walk on Newchurch Common.
A new insect was added in the shape of a tiny 1mm Springtail, most likely Dicyrtoma fusca, with several seen feeding on fungi on Shemmy Moss and by Big Pool. Also seen were 3 Common Darter dragonflies still, all by Shemmy Moss.
My fungi hunting produced another 5 new species. The best was Frosty Webcap (Cortinarius hemitrichus) on Shemmy Moss, an occasional UK species according to the web. All the other new species were also on Shemmy Moss : Common Rustgill (Gymnophilus penetrans), Conifer Tuft (Hypholoma caproides), Mountain Brownie (Deconica montana) and Jelly Rot Fungus (Phlebia tremellosa).
Fungi photographed but seen previously were Ribbed Bell on the wet area of Shemmy Moss, Blushing Bracket of the non-red form by Small Pool, and by Big Pool very mature Common Puffballs by Big Pool and Witches Butter.
Early stage Common Spangle Gall Wasp galls were photographed on dead oak leaves by Small Pool.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 9th of November 2022 09:50:43 PM
Doc Brewster said
Sun Nov 6 6:38 PM, 2022
Another morning walk on Newchurch Common for fungi.
On Sandy Lane a previously seen mushroom had been 'kicked' over so I collected it and the size and odour of aniseed confirmed ID as Horse Mushroom (Agaricus arvensis), my first confirmed on patch and one to be consumed in the near future! Other new species were Pipe Club (Macrotyphula fistulosa) north of Big Pool, Fairy Inkcap (Coprinellus disseminatus) near Big Pool Island Cut and Small Moss Oysterling (Arrhenia retiruga) in the same area.
Other repeat finds included a new huge stand of Wrinkled Club north of Big Pool and Variable Oysterlings everywhere!
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Sunday 6th of November 2022 06:40:04 PM
Doc Brewster said
Fri Nov 4 9:51 PM, 2022
Another morning at Newchurch Common, again mainly for fungi.
A long-wanted find was a beautiful Parrot Waxcap (Hygrocybe psittacina), east of Big Pool in my 'waxcap corner' which has produced 4 species of waxcaps this year - amazing!! Also new in the same area was Earthy Powdercap (Cystoderma amianthinum). Very close by a regular find was photographed again, Blushing Bracket with Angels Bonnet re-photographed just a few metres away from the bracket fungi.
John Williams said
Fri Nov 4 5:47 PM, 2022
Chelford Sand Quarries
Singles of Common Darter dragonflies seen at Mere Farm Pools and Lapwing Hall Pool.
Several caddis flies (Similar to Anabolia nervosa) seen around Lapwing Hall Pool.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Nov 3 8:51 PM, 2022
A walk on my patch Newchurch Common this am., amazing sunshine, warm too.
A total of 8 Common Darters were seen, all around Shemmy Moss.
A Common Drone Fly hoverfly was on ragwort on Shemmy Moss. Two more invertebrates were in Gull Pool Wood, namely Common Shiny Woodlouse and Black Millipede.
The usual fungus walk added four species to my list of photographed fungi over the last 3 weeks. These were Witches Broom (Taphrina betulina), an ever present common site all over the patch, Dwarf Bell (Galerina pumila) near Big Pool, Dark Honey Fungus (Armillaria ostoyae) near Big Pool and Common Stump Brittlestem (Psathyrella pililiformis) in Gull Pool Wood.
Other species photographed but recorded previously were Candlesnuff, Birch Polypore, Purple Jellydisc and Hairy Curtain Crust.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Oct 30 9:51 PM, 2022
Last night's moth trapping in my garden produced a Cheshire (and lots of other places) rarity - Scarce Bordered Straw, a rare migrant moth which is only recorded a few times a year here and had zero sightings for 10 years between 2005-2015 in Cheshire. Understandably it was a lifer moth for me!
Doc Brewster said
Fri Oct 28 11:05 PM, 2022
An afternoon walk at Newchurch Common for Fungi again, again with company!
We had a great search finding at least 8 new species for the patch this year. These were firstly by the entrance track of Newchurch Common ; Wrinkled Club (Clavulina rugosa), then near Big Pool ; Grass Oysterling (Crepidotus epibryus) and Wrinkled Crust (Phlebia radiata), by the Whitegate Way ; Honey Fungus (Armillaria mellea), Oak Milkcap (Lactarius quietus) and Sheathed Woodtuft (Kuehneromyces mutabilis), and at Shemmy Moss ; Earthfan (Thelephora terrestris) and Common Fieldcap (Agrocybe pediades).
Others found, but seen previously, and photographed were: by Small Pool ; Powdery Brittlegill, Angel's Bonnet and Clouded Funnel, by the Whitegate Way ; The Miller, The Deceiver and Candlesnuff, and on Shemmy Moss ; The Sickener.
A Common Darter dragonfly was also seen on Shemmy Moss.
John Williams said
Fri Oct 28 7:34 PM, 2022
Woolston Eyes No 3 Bed
3 Red Admiral butterflies were still to be seen, showing a keen interest in the few remaining buddlela flowers.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Oct 27 9:57 PM, 2022
On Newchurch this afternoon whilst showing a guest some fungi I found two new ones : Ivory Bonnet (Mycena flavoalba), E.of Big Pool, and Egghead Mottlegill (Panaeolus semiovatus) on the dung heap.
Nearby in our horse paddocks at Foxwist Green I found a nice group of Golden Waxcaps (Hygrocybe chlorophana).
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Thursday 27th of October 2022 10:03:39 PM
Doc Brewster said
Wed Oct 26 9:24 PM, 2022
A short walk this afternoon at Newchurch Common concentrated on fungi again.
New species are getting harder to find so it was nice to add Mycena pseudocorticola, a tiny bluish fungus on a moss covered tree, and Slender Club (Macrotyphula juncea) a fungus growing like stems of fine grass from the leaf litter. Both species were tiny and could have easily been overlooked. A new slime mould was added, Dog Sick Slime Mould (Mucilago crustacea) on grass N.of Big Pool, a white slime mould not to be confused with the yellow Dog Vomit Slime Mould that grows on bark.
In the meadow E.of Big Pool lots of waxcaps still thrived, of the three species already recorded, Snowy Waxcap, Butter Waxcap and Blackening Waxcap. Other species seen and photographed that had been seen before included a lovely specimen of Grooved Bonnet, Upright Coral Fungus, Candlesnuff Fungus and Shaggy Parasol. One of the commonest species now seen is Clouded Funnel.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 26th of October 2022 09:25:27 PM
John Williams said
Mon Oct 24 10:48 PM, 2022
Whixall Moss Shropshire Early afternoon
Despite a strong Westerly blowing 4m Common and 1m Black Darter dragonflies were seen around pools
near the mossland weather station.
The Black Darter was having an aerial tussle with one the Common males.
Doc Brewster said
Fri Oct 21 9:58 PM, 2022
Another fungal walk on Newchurch Common this morning added a few more species including a fab lifer.
The highlight was a patch of at least 20 Butter Waxcaps, a new species for me anywhere, just E.of Big Pool. In the same area my first 8 Blackening Waxcaps of the year were seen. North of Big Pool I found Crystal Brain Fungus (Exidia nucleata) and Witches Butter (Tremella mesenterica). A tiny 1mm high Orange Bonnet (Mycena acicula) was new for me too, again N.of Big Pool). Netted Crust (Byssomerulius corium) was new and was N.of Big Pool. Coral Spot (Nectria cinnabarina) was another new species and N.of Big Pool again.
Repeat sightings, all near Big Pool, included Variable Oysterling, Parasol, ShaggyParasol, Clouded Funnel and White Fibercap.
A nice patch of the small white slime mould Diderma effusumwas found on the dung heap N.of Big Pool. This is either scarce or under recorded, so was a great discovery and a lifer for me.
Hoary Rosette Lichen (Physcia aipolia) was new for me, and was on gorse N.of Big Pool.
A Hornet was seen, which is always nice.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Saturday 22nd of October 2022 01:50:01 PM
Doc Brewster said
Thu Oct 20 9:43 PM, 2022
John Williams wrote:
I'm pretty sure this the caterpillar of the Yellow-tail Moth, but please correct if I'm wrong?.
Looks like Knot Grass moth caterpillar, John.
John Williams said
Wed Oct 19 5:27 PM, 2022
Burtonwood (Arable fields just to the North of the M62) Midday
Very few insects were seen, mainly just the occasional bee visiting the few remaining flowers.
However 3 Stonechats were seen performing numerous aerial fly catching sorties from a bramble patch near
Dial Post Farm.
In the same area I found the caterpillar shown below, also on brambles, near hawthorns alongside an overgrown pond.
I'm pretty sure this the caterpillar of the Yellow-tail Moth, but please correct if I'm wrong?.
Butterflies : 1 Painted Lady (Mere Farm Pools) and 1 Comma (Lapwing Hall Pool).
Dragonflies : 1 Southern Hawker (North side of Lapwing Hall Pool) and 1 Migrant Hawker (West side of Lapwing Hall Pool).
Numerous Common Darters seen along the paths both at Mere Farm pools and around the Lapwing Lane area.
1 Hornet seen by the path on the North side of Lapwing Hall Pool.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Oct 16 10:07 PM, 2022
Working a couple of days but Sunday off for another fungi hunt at Newchurch Common this morning. New species becoming harder to find, but still managed a few today!
My new species were : North of Big Pool on a dung heap ; Common Dung Cup (Peziza vesiculosa), Hare's Foot Inkcap (Coprinopsis lagopus) and Petticoat Mottlegill (Panaeolus papilionaceus), near Big Pool ; Tan Pinkgill (Rhodocybe gemina), Angel's Bonnet (Mycena arcangeliana) and Crystal Brain Fungus (Exidia nucleata), near Small Pool ; Dark Honey Fungus (Armillaria ostoyae), and in the horse fields off Novia Scotia Lane Shaggy Parasol (Chlorophyllum rhacodes), Conical Brittlestem (Psathyrella conopilus) and Field Mushroom (Agaricus campestris).
Also photographed were a nice stand of 6 Collared Earthstars (Geastrum triplex) near Finch Hedge and The Miller (Clitopilus prunulus) in the horse fields off Nova Scotia Lane.
Wolf's Milk Slime Mould (Lycogala epidendrum) was seen and photographed near Big Pool.
Honey Bees, Marmalade Hoverflies and Tapered Droneflies were nectaring on Ivy flowers in the sunshine.
Doc Brewster said
Fri Oct 14 10:16 PM, 2022
Another morning fungi-ing on my Newchurch Common patch.
Several new species photographed again, these were : In Gull Pool Wood ; Tawny Grisette (Amanita fulva), Powdery Brittlegill (Russula parazurea), Purple Jellydisc (Ascocoryne sarcoides) and Spotted Toughshank (Rhodocollybia maculata), by Abbot's Moss ; The Flirt (Russula vesca), Ribbed Bell (Galerina clavata), The Sickener (Russula emetica), Upright Coral Fungus (Ramaria stricta) and Collared Earthstar (Geastrum triplex), and near Big Pool ; Coral Spot (Nectria cinnabarina).
Ones seen recently and photographed today were : In Gull Pool Wood ; lots of Bay Boletes (Boletus badius) and lots of False Chantarelles (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca), on Abbot's Moss ; Black Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus), The Deceiver (Laccaria laccata), Clouded Funnel (Clitacybe nebularis) and innumerable Brown Birch Boletes (Leccinum scabrum), and by Small Pool and the mosses Bolete Eater (Hypomyces chrysospermus).
A Dock Bug nymph was also seen on Shemmy Moss.
John Williams said
Thu Oct 13 11:07 AM, 2022
Many thanks for confirming the ID of the caterpillar Lez.
Regards
John
Lez Fairclough said
Wed Oct 12 10:26 PM, 2022
John Williams wrote:
Tatton Park. (Midday)
Butterflies : 1 Red Admiral.
Also the caterpillar in the photo attached was found below an oak tree, can anyone please confirm the species?.
Hi John, looks like a 'Grey Dagger Moth Caterpillar'. Beautiful markings - a lot of caterpillars are nicer marked than the moth itself.
Doc Brewster said
Wed Oct 12 9:54 PM, 2022
Another morning on Newchurch Common looking for fungi.
New species were found, near Big Pool ; Bay Bolete(Boletus badia), Hairy Curtain Crust (Stereum hirsutum), Weeping Widow (Lacrymaria lacrymabunda) and The Miller (Clitopilus prunulus), in Gull Pool Wood ; Pale Bramble Rust (Kuehneola uredinis), Scurfy Deceiver (Laccaria proxima), Spectacular Rustgill (Gymnopilus junonius) and Grooved Bonnet (Mycena polygramma), and near Small Pool ; Nitrous Bonnet (Mycena leptocephala).
Other species photographed were, near Big Pool ; Aniseed Toadstool (Clitocybe odora), in Gull Pool Wood ; Brown Rollrim (Paxillus involutus), Hoof Bracket (Fomes fomentarius), Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata) and Blushing Bracket (Daedaleopsis confragosa),and near Small Pool ; Birch Polypore (Formitopsis betulina).
The galls of Spangle Gall Wasp (Neuroterus quercusbaccarum) were on dead oak leaves near Small Pool.
A small Raspberry Slime Mould (Tubifera ferruginosa) was in Gull Pool Wood.
John Williams said
Wed Oct 12 6:58 PM, 2022
Tatton Park. (Midday)
Butterflies : 1 Red Admiral.
Also the caterpillar in the photo attached was found below an oak tree, can anyone please confirm the species?.
Yet another fungal foray on Newchurch Common this am, dry and bright.
Had a bumper day with several new species found. These were Birch Milkcap (Lactarius tabidus), Blueing Bracket (Postia subcaesia), Clouded Funnel (Clitocybe nebularis), Dead Moll's Fingers (Xylaria longipes), Green Brittlegill (Russula aeruginea), Lilac Fibrecap (Inocybe geophylla var. lilacina), Veiled Oyster (Pleurotus dryinus), Variable Brittlegill (Russula versicolor) and Blackfoot Polypore (Polyporus leptocephalus). New for the year was The Deceiver (Laccaria laccata). Other ones photographed but seen before in 2022 included Blusher (Amanita rubescens), Brown Rollrim (Paxillus involutus), Common Puffball (Lycoperdon perlatum), Candlesnuff (Xylaria hypoxylon), Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria), Iodine Bonnet (Mycena filpoes), Parasol (Macrolepiota procera), Poison Pie (Hebeloma crustuliniforme), Red Cracking Bolete (Xerocomellus chrysenteron) and Sulphur Tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare).
Also seen was the ground lichen Peltigera hymenina.
If anyone is interested in joining me on a fungal stroll just private message me and if free I'll gladly show folk around.
John Williams said
Mon Oct 10 7:04 PM, 2022
Brockholes LWT Reserve 11.00-15.30
Butterflies : 4 Red Admirals and 1 Small White.
Dragonflies : Still a few Migrant Hawker and Common Darters around, especially by the path alongside No1 Pit.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Oct 6 6:02 PM, 2022
Another fungal foray on Newchurch Common this am, drizzly but who cares - not the fungi!!
First a correction, Sunday Oct 2nd's Poisonpie was in fact Veiled Poisonpie (Hebeloma mesophaeum).
Today the star find was Aniseed Toadstool (Clitocybe odora) on the spit fishing peg, and yes it had the gorgeous smell of aniseed as well as being a bright blue colour. Other new patch records were Dwarf Bell (Galerina pumila) east of Big Pool, Snapping Bonnet (Mycena vitilis) in the same area, Blusher (Amanita rubescens), Fragrant Funnel (Clitocybe fragrans) in the same woods with Silverleaf Fungus (Chondrostereum purpureum) and Copper Spike (Chroogomphus rutilus) in several wooded areas near Big Pool. New for the year were Shaggy Scalycap (Pholiota squarrosa), Sulphur Tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare), Candlesnuff (Xylaria hypoxylon), Fairy Inkcap (Coprinellus disseminatus) and Common Puffball (Lycoperdon perlatum), all in wooded areas near Big Pool.
Another fly that feeds on fungi was seen, this time a member of the Heleomyzidae identified as a Suillia species only, further ID being impossible just from a photo.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Thursday 6th of October 2022 06:03:30 PM
Andy Slee said
Thu Oct 6 10:52 AM, 2022
Accidental post removed.
-- Edited by Andy Slee on Thursday 6th of October 2022 06:23:55 PM
Doc Brewster said
Tue Oct 4 9:55 AM, 2022
Doc Brewster wrote:
On my Newchurch Common patch this am for mainly a fungal foray around Big Pool, I don't collect any, just photograph and then leave for others to enjoy.
Today was really successful with several patch firsts and some new for the year. A new fungus was Penny Bun or Cep (Boletus edulis), with a small group in birch woodland by Big Pool. Also new was Snowy Waxcap (Hygrocybe virginea) in grassland to the east of Big Pool. Another new find was Poison Pie (Hebeloma crustuliniforme) under birch and oak trees. A new species not near the pools was found at the top of Sandy Lane in the shape of a Mosaic Puffball (Lycoperdon utriforme). A number of Mycena species were tentatively identified, namely Iodine Bonnet (Mycena filpoes), Black Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus) and Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata). Also seen were Butter Cap (Rhodocollybia butyracea), Velvet Shank (Flammulina velutipes), Blushing Bracket (Daedaleopsis confragsa), Round Spored Oysterling (Crepidotus cesatii), Brown Birch Bolete (Leccinum scabrum) and White Fibrecap (Inocybe geophylla).
In addition Birch Knight (Tricholoma fulvum) has now been identified.
John Williams said
Mon Oct 3 8:39 PM, 2022
Burtonwood (Arable fields just North of the M62)
Butterflies : 2 Red Admirals and 1 Small Copper.
Despite the weather being suitable at midday today, not a single dragonfly could be found throughout the area.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Oct 2 6:06 PM, 2022
On my Newchurch Common patch this am for mainly a fungal foray around Big Pool, I don't collect any, just photograph and then leave for others to enjoy.
Today was really successful with several patch firsts and some new for the year. A new fungus was Penny Bun or Cep (Boletus edulis), with a small group in birch woodland by Big Pool. Also new was Snowy Waxcap (Hygrocybe virginea) in grassland to the east of Big Pool. Another new find was Poison Pie (Hebeloma crustuliniforme) under birch and oak trees. A new species not near the pools was found at the top of Sandy Lane in the shape of a Mosaic Puffball (Lycoperdon utriforme). A number of Mycena species were tentatively identified, namely Iodine Bonnet (Mycena filpoes), Black Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus) and Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata). Also seen were Butter Cap (Rhodocollybia butyracea), Velvet Shank (Flammulina velutipes), Blushing Bracket (Daedaleopsis confragsa), Round Spored Oysterling (Crepidotus cesatii), Brown Birch Bolete (Leccinum scabrum) and White Fibrecap (Inocybe geophylla).
With all these fungi present it wasn't a surprise that one of my photos contained a minute Dark-winged Fungus Gnat Sciara hemerobioides.
A new plant species for me anywhere was added with a Blindeyes or Long-headed Poppy (Papaver dubium) on one of the fishing pegs, a specialist in sandy areas, like this old sand quarry!
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 3rd of October 2022 12:18:18 PM
Doc Brewster said
Thu Sep 29 2:33 PM, 2022
On Newchurch Common this morning, overcast but warming up a little with weak September sunshine.
A Green-veined White was my only butterfly. Just 2 Common Darters seen for my odonata sightings.
Warming up on bramble leaves were 4 Dock Shieldbugs. A Marmalade Hoverfly and a Drone Fly were seen. On Shemmy Moss Four-spot Orb-weaver spider and Garden Cross Orb-weavers were seen.
Doc Brewster said
Sat Sep 24 10:10 PM, 2022
Newchurch Common again pm for a short walk, very overcast.
A Migrant Hawker dragonfly was flying.
The main observations were of fungi and plants. A Red Cracked Bolete fungus was by Big Pool. Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata) and Brown Roll-rim were also seen.
Field Pansy and Common Field-speedwell were NE of Big Pool in a crop field. Also seen were Field Horsetail, Perforate St.John's Wort, Ribwort Plantain, Dove's-foot Cranesbill and Common Chickweed.
Doc Brewster said
Wed Sep 21 3:59 PM, 2022
Afternoon on Newchucrh Common again in warm overcast conditions. All sightings were in the Big Pool area.
A single Small Copper was the best butterfly of 3 species.
A late Brown Hawker was my first for a while. A Migrant Hawker, 3 Common Darters and a Common Blue Damselfly were also seen.
on the north side of Big Pool 2 Parasol Mushrooms (Macrolepiota procera) were newly out one still in an early stage but both pristine.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 21st of September 2022 04:00:11 PM
Doc Brewster said
Tue Sep 20 10:08 PM, 2022
An afternoon walk in the sun on my Newchurch Common patch.
A bit of sun brought out up to 4 Commas, 3 Speckled Woods, a Green-veined White and a Small White.
A Southern Hawker, 2 Migrant Hawkers, 2 Black Darters and at least 7 Common Darters were seen.
A similar range of other invertebrates as recently were seen.
False Chanterelle mushrooms (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca) were on Shemmy Moss as well as the parasitic fungus Bolete Eater (Hypomyces chrysospermus). The tiny Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus) was just off the main track before the pools.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Tuesday 20th of September 2022 10:13:15 PM
Doc Brewster said
Sat Sep 17 3:59 PM, 2022
A late morning in sunny conditions at Newchurch Common.
A Red Admiral, 3 Commas, a Small White and 2 Speckled Woods were in the mosslands area.
At least 10 Common Darters were on Shemmy Moss with two pairs still mating 'in cop'. Also seen were 2 Black Darters and a Migrant Hawker.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Sep 15 9:24 PM, 2022
Had a morning walk on Newchurch Common, bit of sun then dull and not too cold. A good wild-lifing day.
The sight of 2 dead Badgers on Daleford Lane was not good.
There were 2 Commas and a Speckled Wood on Shemmy Moss. A total of 6 Common Darters and 2 Black Darters were seen. A Field Digger Wasp was on the mosses.
A good spider day with 3 Four-spotted Orb-weavers and a few Garden Cross Orb-weavers seen on Shemmy Moss. Also seen was a young Nursery Web Spider.
It was also good for bugs with Spiked Shield Bug, Green Shield Bug and Dock Bug being photographed on Shemmy Moss.
Copse Snail (Arianta arbustorum) was also seen.
Fungi included Shaggy Inkcap, Russet Toughshank and Common Earthball. The plant Fox and Cubs was photographed.
John Williams said
Wed Sep 14 11:07 PM, 2022
Langden Valley Bowland 12.00-18.00
Butterflies : 1 Red Admiral, 1 Small Heath and 1 Large White.
Also seen were a couple of "Inanis" type hoverflies.
Doc Brewster said
Tue Sep 13 8:43 PM, 2022
This afternoon at Newchurch Common it was still, dry and sunny at times.
Six butterfly species were seen with 2 Small Coppers north of Big Pool where a Red Admiral fed on blackberries. There were 2 Commas, a Speckled Wood, a Small White and 2Green-veined Whites too.
A Migrant Hawker was north of Big Pool whilst 3 Common Darters were east of the pool. Just 2 Common Blue Damselflies were seen.
A Straw Dot and a Silver Y were the moths observed today. A couple of Eristalis nemorum hoverflies were photographed. A new bug for the patch was Broad Damsel Bug (Nabis flavomarginatus)on ragwort whilst 2 Gorse Shield Bugs were seen, an adult and a nymph.
Plants seen included Bittersweet.
John Williams said
Fri Sep 9 6:12 PM, 2022
Woolston No 3 Bed 11.00-14.30
2 Comma butterflies were on the bramble patch by the car park, together with a female Common Darter dragonfly.
Between heavy showers numerous Migrant Hawker dragonflies appeared.
A single Small Copper butterfly was seen near the John Morgan hide.
Doc Brewster said
Thu Sep 8 3:23 PM, 2022
A morning on Newchurch Common, dull and dry.
A trio of amphibians were seen at Gull Pool, namely Great Crested Newt, Smooth Newt and Common Toad.
The only butterfly was a Green-veined White and 2 Black Darters were the only odonata. A migrant Rush Veneer moth on Shemmy Moss was new for the patch this year.
A Hornet was hunting over Shemmy Moss. Four-spot Orb-weaver and Garden Cross Orb-weaver spiders were seen. Lots of Long-jawed Orb-weaver spiders were also seen, probably Tetragnatha extensa. A new tachinid fly was seen on Shemmy Moss, Linnaemya vulpina. The cranefly Tipula luna was identified on Shemmy Moss.
Knopper Oak Gall was seen but thankfully on very few trees.
John Williams said
Thu Sep 1 6:09 PM, 2022
Moore NR 11.00-15.00
Butterflies : 1 Comma, 1 Green Veined White, 5 Common Blues, 1 Meadow Brown and lots of Speckled Woods.
Odonata : Numerous Migrant Hawkers, Common Darters and Common Blue Damselflies.
A huge shoal of Sticklebacks seen in Birchwood Pool.
Doc Brewster said
Sun Aug 28 10:51 PM, 2022
An afternoon walk at Newchurch Common, sunny intervals, warm.
Quiet really with the main noteworthy sightings being a female BogBush-cricket, 2SouthernHawkers, 3CommonDarters, a RedAdmiral, 2LargeWhites, a Green-veinedWhite and 6SpeckledWoods.
A new fungus was added to the patch list, StubbleRosegill (Volvariellagloiocephala), seen near the main track entrance.
Plants included MarshWoundwort, WhitePoplar, Mugwort and GreenAlkanet.
John Williams said
Fri Aug 26 7:27 PM, 2022
Danebower (Cheshire & Derbyshire) 11.00-15.00
Danebower Hollow, Area around the chimney, River Dane and former quarry area.
Butterflies : Numerous Small Heaths(Especially along the Hollow N. of the A54).
Small Tortoiseshells also abundant, especially around the flowering heather, which also attracted lesser numbers
of Red Admiral and Peacocks. 1 Small Copper and 1 Painted Lady were also seen.
Dragonflies : 2 male Black Darters were seen by the Dane.
Close to the quarry what appeared to be a Forest Bug was also seen. (Photo Below)
An afternoon walk produced 1 new fungus species - Alder Bracket Fungus (Inonotus radiatus) near Small Pool.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 7th of December 2022 10:45:55 PM
Another morning mainly concentrated on fungi and again a few new ones.
Newly found were Bitter Oysterling (Panellus stipticus) near Small Pool, Sulphur Disco (Bisporella sulfurina) in Gull Pool Wood, and Yellow Stagshorn Fungus (Calocera viscosa) on Shemmy Moss.
Re-photographed were Angel's Bonnet, Powdery Brittlegill, Hairy Curtain Crust, Turkeytail, and Collared Earthstar.
A Red Campion plant was freshly in flower in December.
A morning on Newchurch Common.
I thought that my fungus walks were over but I had a good walk this morning. A few new species were added and other nice specimens photographed.
New for the patch were Common Jellyspot Fungus (Dacrymyces stillatus) and Frosty Bonnet (Mycena adscendens), both near Small Pool. Also new was a clump of Glistening Inkcaps (Coprinellus micaceus) near Big Pool.
Seen before but recorded today were Common Rustgill, Spectacular Rustgill, Hoof Fungus and Coral Spot Fungus (all Gull Pool Wood), Iodine Bonnet (Small Pool), Common Puffball and Blushing Bracket (both Big Pool), Collared Earthstar and Upright Coral Fungus (both Shemmy Moss) and Sulphur Tuft (Whitegate Way).
The Springtail Dictyrtomina ornata (probable) was seen on the Coral Spot Fungus in Gull Pool Wood.
The lunchtime sunshine tempted a single male Common Darter dragonfly into flight.
A morning visit to Newchurch Common.
Fungi are getting scarcer now but a new species seen was Saffron Oysterling (Crepidotus crocophyllus) to the NE of Big Pool.
A Clouded Funnel was still present NE of Big Pool. Also seen was Ribbed Bell on the mossy meadow E.of Big Pool.
A new plant was Black Nightshade (Solanum nigrum) in flower NE of Big Pool.
A single Water Vole was seen swimming across the River Alt, alongside the reserve.
A single Red Admiral butterfly seen on bushes alongside Pumphouse Flash at lunchtime.
A couple of visits to Newchurch Common concentrated on birds this time!!
A couple of bits. A new fungus on the dungheap north of Big Pool, a Wrinkled Field Cap (Agrocybe rivlosa). Also on the dung was a Tarzetta sp. fungus, a tiny cup which may have bee impossible even with microscopy!
Other fungi seen before but photographed today included Common Dung Cup, Hare's Foot Inkcap and Witches Butter. A Suillia fungus feeding fly was again seen and photographed.
Another sunny morning walk on Newchurch Common.
A new insect was added in the shape of a tiny 1mm Springtail, most likely Dicyrtoma fusca, with several seen feeding on fungi on Shemmy Moss and by Big Pool. Also seen were 3 Common Darter dragonflies still, all by Shemmy Moss.
My fungi hunting produced another 5 new species. The best was Frosty Webcap (Cortinarius hemitrichus) on Shemmy Moss, an occasional UK species according to the web. All the other new species were also on Shemmy Moss : Common Rustgill (Gymnophilus penetrans), Conifer Tuft (Hypholoma caproides), Mountain Brownie (Deconica montana) and Jelly Rot Fungus (Phlebia tremellosa).
Fungi photographed but seen previously were Ribbed Bell on the wet area of Shemmy Moss, Blushing Bracket of the non-red form by Small Pool, and by Big Pool very mature Common Puffballs by Big Pool and Witches Butter.
Early stage Common Spangle Gall Wasp galls were photographed on dead oak leaves by Small Pool.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 9th of November 2022 09:50:43 PM
Another morning walk on Newchurch Common for fungi.
On Sandy Lane a previously seen mushroom had been 'kicked' over so I collected it and the size and odour of aniseed confirmed ID as Horse Mushroom (Agaricus arvensis), my first confirmed on patch and one to be consumed in the near future! Other new species were Pipe Club (Macrotyphula fistulosa) north of Big Pool, Fairy Inkcap (Coprinellus disseminatus) near Big Pool Island Cut and Small Moss Oysterling (Arrhenia retiruga) in the same area.
Other repeat finds included a new huge stand of Wrinkled Club north of Big Pool and Variable Oysterlings everywhere!
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Sunday 6th of November 2022 06:40:04 PM
Another morning at Newchurch Common, again mainly for fungi.
A long-wanted find was a beautiful Parrot Waxcap (Hygrocybe psittacina), east of Big Pool in my 'waxcap corner' which has produced 4 species of waxcaps this year - amazing!! Also new in the same area was Earthy Powdercap (Cystoderma amianthinum). Very close by a regular find was photographed again, Blushing Bracket with Angels Bonnet re-photographed just a few metres away from the bracket fungi.
Singles of Common Darter dragonflies seen at Mere Farm Pools and Lapwing Hall Pool.
Several caddis flies (Similar to Anabolia nervosa) seen around Lapwing Hall Pool.
A walk on my patch Newchurch Common this am., amazing sunshine, warm too.
A total of 8 Common Darters were seen, all around Shemmy Moss.
A Common Drone Fly hoverfly was on ragwort on Shemmy Moss. Two more invertebrates were in Gull Pool Wood, namely Common Shiny Woodlouse and Black Millipede.
The usual fungus walk added four species to my list of photographed fungi over the last 3 weeks. These were Witches Broom (Taphrina betulina), an ever present common site all over the patch, Dwarf Bell (Galerina pumila) near Big Pool, Dark Honey Fungus (Armillaria ostoyae) near Big Pool and Common Stump Brittlestem (Psathyrella pililiformis) in Gull Pool Wood.
Other species photographed but recorded previously were Candlesnuff, Birch Polypore, Purple Jellydisc and Hairy Curtain Crust.
Last night's moth trapping in my garden produced a Cheshire (and lots of other places) rarity - Scarce Bordered Straw, a rare migrant moth which is only recorded a few times a year here and had zero sightings for 10 years between 2005-2015 in Cheshire. Understandably it was a lifer moth for me!
An afternoon walk at Newchurch Common for Fungi again, again with company!
We had a great search finding at least 8 new species for the patch this year. These were firstly by the entrance track of Newchurch Common ; Wrinkled Club (Clavulina rugosa), then near Big Pool ; Grass Oysterling (Crepidotus epibryus) and Wrinkled Crust (Phlebia radiata), by the Whitegate Way ; Honey Fungus (Armillaria mellea), Oak Milkcap (Lactarius quietus) and Sheathed Woodtuft (Kuehneromyces mutabilis), and at Shemmy Moss ; Earthfan (Thelephora terrestris) and Common Fieldcap (Agrocybe pediades).
Others found, but seen previously, and photographed were: by Small Pool ; Powdery Brittlegill, Angel's Bonnet and Clouded Funnel, by the Whitegate Way ; The Miller, The Deceiver and Candlesnuff, and on Shemmy Moss ; The Sickener.
A Common Darter dragonfly was also seen on Shemmy Moss.
3 Red Admiral butterflies were still to be seen, showing a keen interest in the few remaining buddlela flowers.
On Newchurch this afternoon whilst showing a guest some fungi I found two new ones : Ivory Bonnet (Mycena flavoalba), E.of Big Pool, and Egghead Mottlegill (Panaeolus semiovatus) on the dung heap.
Nearby in our horse paddocks at Foxwist Green I found a nice group of Golden Waxcaps (Hygrocybe chlorophana).
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Thursday 27th of October 2022 10:03:39 PM
A short walk this afternoon at Newchurch Common concentrated on fungi again.
New species are getting harder to find so it was nice to add Mycena pseudocorticola, a tiny bluish fungus on a moss covered tree, and Slender Club (Macrotyphula juncea) a fungus growing like stems of fine grass from the leaf litter. Both species were tiny and could have easily been overlooked. A new slime mould was added, Dog Sick Slime Mould (Mucilago crustacea) on grass N.of Big Pool, a white slime mould not to be confused with the yellow Dog Vomit Slime Mould that grows on bark.
In the meadow E.of Big Pool lots of waxcaps still thrived, of the three species already recorded, Snowy Waxcap, Butter Waxcap and Blackening Waxcap. Other species seen and photographed that had been seen before included a lovely specimen of Grooved Bonnet, Upright Coral Fungus, Candlesnuff Fungus and Shaggy Parasol. One of the commonest species now seen is Clouded Funnel.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 26th of October 2022 09:25:27 PM
Despite a strong Westerly blowing 4m Common and 1m Black Darter dragonflies were seen around pools
near the mossland weather station.
The Black Darter was having an aerial tussle with one the Common males.
Another fungal walk on Newchurch Common this morning added a few more species including a fab lifer.
The highlight was a patch of at least 20 Butter Waxcaps, a new species for me anywhere, just E.of Big Pool. In the same area my first 8 Blackening Waxcaps of the year were seen. North of Big Pool I found Crystal Brain Fungus (Exidia nucleata) and Witches Butter (Tremella mesenterica). A tiny 1mm high Orange Bonnet (Mycena acicula) was new for me too, again N.of Big Pool). Netted Crust (Byssomerulius corium) was new and was N.of Big Pool. Coral Spot (Nectria cinnabarina) was another new species and N.of Big Pool again.
Repeat sightings, all near Big Pool, included Variable Oysterling, Parasol, Shaggy Parasol, Clouded Funnel and White Fibercap.
A nice patch of the small white slime mould Diderma effusum was found on the dung heap N.of Big Pool. This is either scarce or under recorded, so was a great discovery and a lifer for me.
Hoary Rosette Lichen (Physcia aipolia) was new for me, and was on gorse N.of Big Pool.
A Hornet was seen, which is always nice.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Saturday 22nd of October 2022 01:50:01 PM
Looks like Knot Grass moth caterpillar, John.
Very few insects were seen, mainly just the occasional bee visiting the few remaining flowers.
However 3 Stonechats were seen performing numerous aerial fly catching sorties from a bramble patch near
Dial Post Farm.
In the same area I found the caterpillar shown below, also on brambles, near hawthorns alongside an overgrown pond.
I'm pretty sure this the caterpillar of the Yellow-tail Moth, but please correct if I'm wrong?.
Butterflies : 1 Painted Lady (Mere Farm Pools) and 1 Comma (Lapwing Hall Pool).
Dragonflies : 1 Southern Hawker (North side of Lapwing Hall Pool) and 1 Migrant Hawker (West side of Lapwing Hall Pool).
Numerous Common Darters seen along the paths both at Mere Farm pools and around the Lapwing Lane area.
1 Hornet seen by the path on the North side of Lapwing Hall Pool.
Working a couple of days but Sunday off for another fungi hunt at Newchurch Common this morning. New species becoming harder to find, but still managed a few today!
My new species were : North of Big Pool on a dung heap ; Common Dung Cup (Peziza vesiculosa), Hare's Foot Inkcap (Coprinopsis lagopus) and Petticoat Mottlegill (Panaeolus papilionaceus), near Big Pool ; Tan Pinkgill (Rhodocybe gemina), Angel's Bonnet (Mycena arcangeliana) and Crystal Brain Fungus (Exidia nucleata), near Small Pool ; Dark Honey Fungus (Armillaria ostoyae), and in the horse fields off Novia Scotia Lane Shaggy Parasol (Chlorophyllum rhacodes), Conical Brittlestem (Psathyrella conopilus) and Field Mushroom (Agaricus campestris).
Also photographed were a nice stand of 6 Collared Earthstars (Geastrum triplex) near Finch Hedge and The Miller (Clitopilus prunulus) in the horse fields off Nova Scotia Lane.
Wolf's Milk Slime Mould (Lycogala epidendrum) was seen and photographed near Big Pool.
Honey Bees, Marmalade Hoverflies and Tapered Droneflies were nectaring on Ivy flowers in the sunshine.
Another morning fungi-ing on my Newchurch Common patch.
Several new species photographed again, these were : In Gull Pool Wood ; Tawny Grisette (Amanita fulva), Powdery Brittlegill (Russula parazurea), Purple Jellydisc (Ascocoryne sarcoides) and Spotted Toughshank (Rhodocollybia maculata), by Abbot's Moss ; The Flirt (Russula vesca), Ribbed Bell (Galerina clavata), The Sickener (Russula emetica), Upright Coral Fungus (Ramaria stricta) and Collared Earthstar (Geastrum triplex), and near Big Pool ; Coral Spot (Nectria cinnabarina).
Ones seen recently and photographed today were : In Gull Pool Wood ; lots of Bay Boletes (Boletus badius) and lots of False Chantarelles (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca), on Abbot's Moss ; Black Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus), The Deceiver (Laccaria laccata), Clouded Funnel (Clitacybe nebularis) and innumerable Brown Birch Boletes (Leccinum scabrum), and by Small Pool and the mosses Bolete Eater (Hypomyces chrysospermus).
A Dock Bug nymph was also seen on Shemmy Moss.
Regards
John
Hi John, looks like a 'Grey Dagger Moth Caterpillar'. Beautiful markings - a lot of caterpillars are nicer marked than the moth itself.
Another morning on Newchurch Common looking for fungi.
New species were found, near Big Pool ; Bay Bolete (Boletus badia), Hairy Curtain Crust (Stereum hirsutum), Weeping Widow (Lacrymaria lacrymabunda) and The Miller (Clitopilus prunulus), in Gull Pool Wood ; Pale Bramble Rust (Kuehneola uredinis), Scurfy Deceiver (Laccaria proxima), Spectacular Rustgill (Gymnopilus junonius) and Grooved Bonnet (Mycena polygramma), and near Small Pool ; Nitrous Bonnet (Mycena leptocephala).
Other species photographed were, near Big Pool ; Aniseed Toadstool (Clitocybe odora), in Gull Pool Wood ; Brown Rollrim (Paxillus involutus), Hoof Bracket (Fomes fomentarius), Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata) and Blushing Bracket (Daedaleopsis confragosa),and near Small Pool ; Birch Polypore (Formitopsis betulina).
The galls of Spangle Gall Wasp (Neuroterus quercusbaccarum) were on dead oak leaves near Small Pool.
A small Raspberry Slime Mould (Tubifera ferruginosa) was in Gull Pool Wood.
Butterflies : 1 Red Admiral.
Also the caterpillar in the photo attached was found below an oak tree, can anyone please confirm the species?.
Yet another fungal foray on Newchurch Common this am, dry and bright.
Had a bumper day with several new species found. These were Birch Milkcap (Lactarius tabidus), Blueing Bracket (Postia subcaesia), Clouded Funnel (Clitocybe nebularis), Dead Moll's Fingers (Xylaria longipes), Green Brittlegill (Russula aeruginea), Lilac Fibrecap (Inocybe geophylla var. lilacina), Veiled Oyster (Pleurotus dryinus), Variable Brittlegill (Russula versicolor) and Blackfoot Polypore (Polyporus leptocephalus). New for the year was The Deceiver (Laccaria laccata). Other ones photographed but seen before in 2022 included Blusher (Amanita rubescens), Brown Rollrim (Paxillus involutus), Common Puffball (Lycoperdon perlatum), Candlesnuff (Xylaria hypoxylon), Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria), Iodine Bonnet (Mycena filpoes), Parasol (Macrolepiota procera), Poison Pie (Hebeloma crustuliniforme), Red Cracking Bolete (Xerocomellus chrysenteron) and Sulphur Tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare).
Also seen was the ground lichen Peltigera hymenina.
If anyone is interested in joining me on a fungal stroll just private message me and if free I'll gladly show folk around.
Butterflies : 4 Red Admirals and 1 Small White.
Dragonflies : Still a few Migrant Hawker and Common Darters around, especially by the path alongside No1 Pit.
Another fungal foray on Newchurch Common this am, drizzly but who cares - not the fungi!!
First a correction, Sunday Oct 2nd's Poisonpie was in fact Veiled Poisonpie (Hebeloma mesophaeum).
Today the star find was Aniseed Toadstool (Clitocybe odora) on the spit fishing peg, and yes it had the gorgeous smell of aniseed as well as being a bright blue colour. Other new patch records were Dwarf Bell (Galerina pumila) east of Big Pool, Snapping Bonnet (Mycena vitilis) in the same area, Blusher (Amanita rubescens), Fragrant Funnel (Clitocybe fragrans) in the same woods with Silverleaf Fungus (Chondrostereum purpureum) and Copper Spike (Chroogomphus rutilus) in several wooded areas near Big Pool. New for the year were Shaggy Scalycap (Pholiota squarrosa), Sulphur Tuft (Hypholoma fasciculare), Candlesnuff (Xylaria hypoxylon), Fairy Inkcap (Coprinellus disseminatus) and Common Puffball (Lycoperdon perlatum), all in wooded areas near Big Pool.
Another fly that feeds on fungi was seen, this time a member of the Heleomyzidae identified as a Suillia species only, further ID being impossible just from a photo.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Thursday 6th of October 2022 06:03:30 PM
Accidental post removed.
-- Edited by Andy Slee on Thursday 6th of October 2022 06:23:55 PM
In addition Birch Knight (Tricholoma fulvum) has now been identified.
Butterflies : 2 Red Admirals and 1 Small Copper.
Despite the weather being suitable at midday today, not a single dragonfly could be found throughout the area.
On my Newchurch Common patch this am for mainly a fungal foray around Big Pool, I don't collect any, just photograph and then leave for others to enjoy.
Today was really successful with several patch firsts and some new for the year. A new fungus was Penny Bun or Cep (Boletus edulis), with a small group in birch woodland by Big Pool. Also new was Snowy Waxcap (Hygrocybe virginea) in grassland to the east of Big Pool. Another new find was Poison Pie (Hebeloma crustuliniforme) under birch and oak trees. A new species not near the pools was found at the top of Sandy Lane in the shape of a Mosaic Puffball (Lycoperdon utriforme). A number of Mycena species were tentatively identified, namely Iodine Bonnet (Mycena filpoes), Black Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus) and Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata). Also seen were Butter Cap (Rhodocollybia butyracea), Velvet Shank (Flammulina velutipes), Blushing Bracket (Daedaleopsis confragsa), Round Spored Oysterling (Crepidotus cesatii), Brown Birch Bolete (Leccinum scabrum) and White Fibrecap (Inocybe geophylla).
With all these fungi present it wasn't a surprise that one of my photos contained a minute Dark-winged Fungus Gnat Sciara hemerobioides.
A new plant species for me anywhere was added with a Blindeyes or Long-headed Poppy (Papaver dubium) on one of the fishing pegs, a specialist in sandy areas, like this old sand quarry!
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Monday 3rd of October 2022 12:18:18 PM
On Newchurch Common this morning, overcast but warming up a little with weak September sunshine.
A Green-veined White was my only butterfly. Just 2 Common Darters seen for my odonata sightings.
Warming up on bramble leaves were 4 Dock Shieldbugs. A Marmalade Hoverfly and a Drone Fly were seen. On Shemmy Moss Four-spot Orb-weaver spider and Garden Cross Orb-weavers were seen.
Newchurch Common again pm for a short walk, very overcast.
A Migrant Hawker dragonfly was flying.
The main observations were of fungi and plants. A Red Cracked Bolete fungus was by Big Pool. Common Bonnet (Mycena galericulata) and Brown Roll-rim were also seen.
Field Pansy and Common Field-speedwell were NE of Big Pool in a crop field. Also seen were Field Horsetail, Perforate St.John's Wort, Ribwort Plantain, Dove's-foot Cranesbill and Common Chickweed.
Afternoon on Newchucrh Common again in warm overcast conditions. All sightings were in the Big Pool area.
A single Small Copper was the best butterfly of 3 species.
A late Brown Hawker was my first for a while. A Migrant Hawker, 3 Common Darters and a Common Blue Damselfly were also seen.
on the north side of Big Pool 2 Parasol Mushrooms (Macrolepiota procera) were newly out one still in an early stage but both pristine.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Wednesday 21st of September 2022 04:00:11 PM
An afternoon walk in the sun on my Newchurch Common patch.
A bit of sun brought out up to 4 Commas, 3 Speckled Woods, a Green-veined White and a Small White.
A Southern Hawker, 2 Migrant Hawkers, 2 Black Darters and at least 7 Common Darters were seen.
A similar range of other invertebrates as recently were seen.
False Chanterelle mushrooms (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca) were on Shemmy Moss as well as the parasitic fungus Bolete Eater (Hypomyces chrysospermus). The tiny Milking Bonnet (Mycena galopus) was just off the main track before the pools.
-- Edited by Doc Brewster on Tuesday 20th of September 2022 10:13:15 PM
A late morning in sunny conditions at Newchurch Common.
A Red Admiral, 3 Commas, a Small White and 2 Speckled Woods were in the mosslands area.
At least 10 Common Darters were on Shemmy Moss with two pairs still mating 'in cop'. Also seen were 2 Black Darters and a Migrant Hawker.
Had a morning walk on Newchurch Common, bit of sun then dull and not too cold. A good wild-lifing day.
The sight of 2 dead Badgers on Daleford Lane was not good.
There were 2 Commas and a Speckled Wood on Shemmy Moss. A total of 6 Common Darters and 2 Black Darters were seen. A Field Digger Wasp was on the mosses.
A good spider day with 3 Four-spotted Orb-weavers and a few Garden Cross Orb-weavers seen on Shemmy Moss. Also seen was a young Nursery Web Spider.
It was also good for bugs with Spiked Shield Bug, Green Shield Bug and Dock Bug being photographed on Shemmy Moss.
Copse Snail (Arianta arbustorum) was also seen.
Fungi included Shaggy Inkcap, Russet Toughshank and Common Earthball. The plant Fox and Cubs was photographed.
Butterflies : 1 Red Admiral, 1 Small Heath and 1 Large White.
Also seen were a couple of "Inanis" type hoverflies.
This afternoon at Newchurch Common it was still, dry and sunny at times.
Six butterfly species were seen with 2 Small Coppers north of Big Pool where a Red Admiral fed on blackberries. There were 2 Commas, a Speckled Wood, a Small White and 2 Green-veined Whites too.
A Migrant Hawker was north of Big Pool whilst 3 Common Darters were east of the pool. Just 2 Common Blue Damselflies were seen.
A Straw Dot and a Silver Y were the moths observed today. A couple of Eristalis nemorum hoverflies were photographed. A new bug for the patch was Broad Damsel Bug (Nabis flavomarginatus)on ragwort whilst 2 Gorse Shield Bugs were seen, an adult and a nymph.
Plants seen included Bittersweet.
2 Comma butterflies were on the bramble patch by the car park, together with a female Common Darter dragonfly.
Between heavy showers numerous Migrant Hawker dragonflies appeared.
A single Small Copper butterfly was seen near the John Morgan hide.
A morning on Newchurch Common, dull and dry.
A trio of amphibians were seen at Gull Pool, namely Great Crested Newt, Smooth Newt and Common Toad.
The only butterfly was a Green-veined White and 2 Black Darters were the only odonata. A migrant Rush Veneer moth on Shemmy Moss was new for the patch this year.
A Hornet was hunting over Shemmy Moss. Four-spot Orb-weaver and Garden Cross Orb-weaver spiders were seen. Lots of Long-jawed Orb-weaver spiders were also seen, probably Tetragnatha extensa. A new tachinid fly was seen on Shemmy Moss, Linnaemya vulpina. The cranefly Tipula luna was identified on Shemmy Moss.
Knopper Oak Gall was seen but thankfully on very few trees.
Butterflies : 1 Comma, 1 Green Veined White, 5 Common Blues, 1 Meadow Brown and lots of Speckled Woods.
Odonata : Numerous Migrant Hawkers, Common Darters and Common Blue Damselflies.
A huge shoal of Sticklebacks seen in Birchwood Pool.
An afternoon walk at Newchurch Common, sunny intervals, warm.
Quiet really with the main noteworthy sightings being a female Bog Bush-cricket, 2 Southern Hawkers, 3 Common Darters, a Red Admiral, 2 Large Whites, a Green-veined White and 6 Speckled Woods.
A new fungus was added to the patch list, Stubble Rosegill (Volvariella gloiocephala), seen near the main track entrance.
Plants included Marsh Woundwort, White Poplar, Mugwort and Green Alkanet.
Danebower Hollow, Area around the chimney, River Dane and former quarry area.
Butterflies : Numerous Small Heaths(Especially along the Hollow N. of the A54).
Small Tortoiseshells also abundant, especially around the flowering heather, which also attracted lesser numbers
of Red Admiral and Peacocks. 1 Small Copper and 1 Painted Lady were also seen.
Dragonflies : 2 male Black Darters were seen by the Dane.
Close to the quarry what appeared to be a Forest Bug was also seen. (Photo Below)