November '22 in Bicknor Wood

November's rain has helped to replenish the depleted water table. There have been some cold days, but the weather remains mild for the time of year. Jupiter has been spectacular on clear nights.

The new bird feeding and observation area has been stocked and the birds have quickly found the treats. Blue Tits, Great Tits and Robins were first to the buffet with a Nuthatch out to the side, waiting his turn.

But they will need to be careful as a Sparrowhawk was also seen waiting close to the feeding station on November 30th.

The newest addition to the bird list since taking on the stewardship of the wood around 2.5 years ago is a Grey Heron that lazily flapped across on November 19th.

A few new fungi species were added for November. The White Dappergill, Leucoagaricus leucothites is closely related to the Fly Agaric and was found in very close proximity. Its scientific name means "True mushroom which is white, but a bit rubbish". 

The trees have been getting on with the annual business of shedding their leaves. A few are earlier than others. Ash and Sweet Chestnut leaves are traditionally the first to drop. They have been thinning since October and a few were completely bare by the end of this month.

The Silver Birch trees and Hazel are paling to yellow.

The Oaks still retained a smattering of green, but blue sky is visible through the sparser foliage. It was previously noted that the two species of oak appeared to be about 2 weeks apart during the spring with Sessile Oaks leafing a fortnight or so ahead of the English. 

The difference isn't quite so dramatic during the autumn, but the English Oaks seem slightly slower to drop.