David

Scarlet elf cups growing amid verdant moss on fallen logs by the footpath in the Paddock in the Smestow Valley Nature Reserve.

Whenever I visit Perton, I look out for the resident muscovy duck on the lake. This time it was hiding out on the island, peeping out through low branches.

Bluetit high in a holly bush, its feathers all fluffed up to retain heat in the sub-zero temperature.

Velvet shanks mushrooms growing at the base of a tree in Finchfield.

The weather recently has not been encouraging me to take long walks. So here one again is a set of pictures of the gang of sparrows which is dominating the garden bird feeders.

The long silk tassel catkins of a garrya bush, probably now reached about their maximum extension.