On Saturday 4th October, from 10am to 12 pm, there’s a wild and wonderful walk at Spring Park led by mycologist Jane McLauchlin, to identify different types of fungi. The walk will help you recognise some common species and maybe a few rarer ones too. Jane will also explain the important roles that fungi play in our local ecosystems. It’s just £3 per person, and you can book via Eventbrite.
Here’s some more on fungi, from the West Wickham Commons newsletter…
Fungi forays
Fungi are starting to take centre stage in our woods and grasslands as summer transitions into autumn. From September onwards, you may notice toadstools pushing up through the soil, fallen logs sprouting bracket fungi, and rings of mushrooms forming in the grass.
Fungi play a vital role in nature. Many species live hidden underground, breaking down dead wood and leaf litter to recycle nutrients back into the soil. Others form close partnerships with trees, helping them absorb water and minerals in exchange for sugars. Without fungi, woodlands and grasslands simply couldn’t thrive.
This autumn, keep an eye out for common species such as parasols with their plate-sized mushrooms, bright purple amethyst deceivers, and bundles of common inkcap that quickly disintegrate into an inky soup. It’s important to leave fungi in place on West Wickham Common and Spring Park, both for everyone to enjoy and to provide a vital food source for animals.
Coney Hall Village Residents' Association (CHVRA) 