Allerthorpe CommonThe minibus was full for our trip to Allerthorpe Common which was led by Joan. En route a brief stop for toilet facilities also gave an opportunity to purchase bacon butties and the like for those who wished to indulge. The aroma in the bus was delicious. We parked in the car park of Allerthorpe Woods where we were met by Michael Knaggs, a member of the botany group who has good knowledge of this site.
Tawny Grisette He led us on a short walk through the wood to the Common which is an enclave within the wood. Short in distance, however, does not mean short in time especially with BEES and with such an abundance of fungi. The predominant fungi families were Boletes, Lactarias and Russulas. Highlights were Oakbug Milkcap, Brown Birch Bolete, the Blusher, Common Yellow Russula and Tawny Grisette which was seen at different stages of development. 
Dusky PuffballA Penny Bun was taken home by Dania. Numerous small Hoof fungi were seen growing on a dead standing tree.
125 plants were recorded including three different types of heather. Notable plants included Small Nettle, Water Pepper and Common Hemp Nettle. John potted a moth which he identified as a male Chevron moth and a bright green caterpillar that hitched a ride on Joan's trousers was found to be a Beautiful Yellow Underwing caterpillar. Unfortunately we did not find any adders but we did see several lizards.Given that the weather has been pretty poor of late, 
Lizard we were very fortunate to experience a bright day that grew increasingly warm.
The warm weather had brought out some dragonflies including black darter, southern hawker, migrant hawker and common hawker. Butterfly sightings included peacock, small tortoiseshell and brimstone. Very few birds were seen, the prize species being buzzard and willow tit. We were grateful to Michael for giving up his time to lead us today. Thanks also to Joan for organising the day and Stuart for driving.
Sue