Inviting

These are the days to look for fungi in the woods.
Many of these are associated with birch trees and are to be found close to them,

.. or even on them as is this clamlike common birch polypore.

Few of the fungi are perfect specimens as the local slug population is usually quick on the scene.

Its attraction for fungi is just one of the reasons to value birch. Robert MacFarlane recently asked for ideas for collective nouns for tree species. One that was suggested was a glimmer of birch, good for spring summer and autumn.

Some on Blacka will glimmer no more.