In less than an hour’s foray on 19 October 2024 in Mellfield and Breach Woods, volunteer surveyor Juliet Hawkins recorded 23 species of fungi – including 11 species new to the estate. There are so many yet to discover! Some of the most beautiful finds from the day are shown below.
There are several places where walkers can see fungi growing adjacent to public or permissive footpaths in woodland and grassland. To minimise issues over-picking and picking of rare fungi, dangers of poisoning and conflicts with insects, Rougham Estate Trust discourages picking except for study and encourages walkers to photograph beautiful specimens and leave them for the enjoyment of others.
Rougham Estate Trust is committed to implementing woodland management recommendations that enhance deadwood habitat, retain veteran and non-commercial trees, and maximise the tree diversity so important for fungi.
Juliet Hawkins – Conservation adviser for Rougham Estate Trust
