Flowers at Madingley Hall

We took a walk around Madingley Hall Gardens yesterday - the frost had gone but it was still chilly. However, lots of flowers are already in bloom. Some of these are expected like the Flowering cherry and Wych Hazel. Other species in bloom were Snowflake, Spurge Laurel, Snowflake, Mahonia, Garrya, Berberis, Hellebore, Jasmine, Iris, Aubretia, Aconite, Green Hellebore, Primrose and Strawberry

Frosty Walk with Full-spectrum Camera

We had a hard frost overnight which was great for walking the 'muddy' footpaths now rock solid and the frost patterns on the leaves were beautiful. A single Red Kite occupied the usual morning tree - hoping its mate is safe somewhere. These are images with the full spectrum camera with very little processing.

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.

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. 

Winter and Spring in the Same Week

Sunday (4th) was a lovely sunny day but, on Monday, we had a heavy snowstorm (the Robin must have felt at home). on our walk in Toft, we found both summer visitors like the Chiffchaff (might have overwintered) and flocks of winter visiting Fieldfares. The blackthorn is fully out with lots of insects. Green Woodpecker, Tree Creeper and many rabbits completed the list.