Winter Solstist at Hardwick

 The Winter Solstice at Hardwick Wood was celebrated today with a huge bonfire to clear up all the bramble, hawthorn and other spiky debris that would impede new growth in the coppiced areas. Unfortunately, I had a lunchtime commitment so I had to miss the jacket potatoes, chestnuts etc

First Breeding Bird Survey of 2024

Yesterday was my first Breeding Bird Survey for 2024 in Hardwick Woods on a cool misty but relatively bright morning starting at the required half hour after sunrise (yes I waited till the clocks went forward!). This Dunnock typifies the 'soft' light conditions. The wood is currently closed to the public and will be for the foreseeable future - this is to protect the habitat. Even with the closure people have been tramping through especially off the main tracks which are knee deep in mud in places - this is resulting in damage to the environment.  The spring flowers are mostly in bloom with the bluebells just starting. Most of images were taken looking into the wood from the Bridleway; The Oxlips were through the fence in the new enclosure which I helped coppice this year - the plants are thriving in the open canopy and away from munching deer.

Hardwick Wood in Winter

 Due to the very thick mud on the paths, Hardwick Wood will be closed from Monday along with other Wildlife Trust woods in the area. After I had finished my usual Saturday morning coppicing session, I took a few images of the wood looking great in the winter sunshine (phone images). I love the way the trees just lie seemingly relaxed on the floor of the wood as mosses and fungi gradually cover them and eventually return them to the soil.

Hoar Frost Hardwick Wood etc

After a foggy day yesterday, the temperature fell sharply overnight and we woke to a hoar frost this morning. Here some photos on my walk up to Hardwick Wood to do some Coppicing with the Wildlife Trust.

Favourite Walk Toft to Hardwick Wood and Caldecote Church

 Some images from my favourite local walk - one I do at least once a week from Toft towards Hardwick then down to the Brook, up to Frog Hall, along to Hardwick wood, round to Caldecote Church and back to Toft. It changes so dramatically through the seasons (see Ann Miles Blog: Favourite Local Walk (pin-sharp.blogspot.com) for a September view)

Winter in Hardwick Wood Project

Last year, I took a lot of photos of lichens, mosses and fungi during the winter months and I hope to extend this project over the upcoming months. I was amazed by the abundance of fungi of all types in the wood yesterday from several types of Mycena to Club fungi, slime moulds, jelly fungi, ink caps etc. Here a few quick shots - I must go back soon with a good tripod and lighting to do them justice.