The water of West Park lake was almost dazzling as they reflected the bright sunlight and the pale colours of the first signs if the coming year’s growth of the trees on the island. On the water, a handful of tufted ducks.
Winter sunshine, West Park
A late December day with dramatic lighting. Heavy, dark and threatening rain clouds, with a few breaks giving brief periods of bright sunshine. Views across West Park lake to one of the islands and to the Conservatory.
Shovellers by the island, West Park
The overwintering shovellers on the lake at West Park. As usual when not sieving the surface of the water for food, they were resting up in the lee of the island.
Honey fungus at base of tree, West Park
Signs that another of the mature trees in West Park will need to be felled in a few years: honey fungus growing at the base of the trunk.
Netted Crust, Byssomerulius corium
Yet one more fungus from the highly productive small area under a pair of beech trees. This netted crust was growing on a fallen branch, presumably from one of the beeches.
Rat in short, damp grass, West Park
Rat searching short, damp grass in West Park for something to eat, finding quite a bit. It was in the most popular area where people put down peanuts for squirrels, likely getting lots of leavings. There was no sign it was disturbed by my presence.