Autumnal Tease…..

Autumn colours continue to be evasive. But at long last there is the occasional taster of things to come…….

It is true that you get a clear indication that autumn is on the way but for the most part he woodland scene is still predominantly green……

It is of course no less pleasant for that, and a walk through the woodland mist was not something to be missed…all the more welcome after the past few days of storms and heavy rain.  But those early mists were soon to lift….

I mentioned heavy rains, but it is a fact that after the wonderful extended summer we are in need of more rain as the low levels of the reservoir indicate all too starkly…..

On a calm, warm, sunny day as this insects are out and about in search of energy giving nectar.  This Comma Butterfly shares the berries of the Ivy with a friendly Fly……

The landscape outside the woodland is also starting to show some autumnal hints but these wind bent Larch are reluctant to loose their needles…..

Whilst the Oak and Beech are still in heavy leaf….

But the season does progress.  The large Horse Mushrooms are now past their best and disappearing until the next year, mind you the odd one still boldly displays…..

Underneath this Oak a Bracket Fungi is thriving in the damp conditions….

Whilst Fungi of a different family is well established on the root ball of this Beech tree…..

Although the signs of summers close and the approaching autumn  are now starting to blend together, the woods are still very much a green and pleasant place to explore….

Location South Derbyshire, England.

17th October

© David Oakes 2013