We enjoyed our second outing in the minibus following the recent Covid restrictions this Tuesday. Twelve participants (including Carol a friend of Margaret) met up with Stuart around 11am at the arboretum. We enjoyed a leisurely day out exploring the grounds of this 100-acre arboretum developed since 1895 by the Ropner family. Also enjoying the beauty and vibrant colours of the trees, shrubs and fungi in autumn. Please view their beauty in the Gallery.
The ground was covered with a carpet of golden red and yellow leaves many having fallen within the last week which was a wet one. The wet conditions had produced a variety of fungi of interest to John. Species seen included honey fungus, clouded funnel, tawney funnel, wrinkled club, yellow club, false chanterelle, scarlet waxcap, slimy waxcap, shaggy parasol, possibly white dome caps and candle snuff.
Although on departure the weather had appeared ominous the day turned out to be dry with periods of sunshine. At 130pm a small group gathered to watch the flying displays of hawks and owls at the Birds of Prey centre before returning to the tearoom for refreshments. We set off homeward around 3 30pm. As ever our thanks go to Julia and Kevin for their preparedness to take on the role of drivers affording us such an uplifting and pleasurable day out.
Margaret