08-NOV-2016
Moss and lichens
A nice composition of moss and lichens photographed by Barry. We don't always take time to look at these particular species but when we do, we find out how attractive they are.
08-NOV-2016
Dryad's saddle (Polyporus squamosus)
this polypore has been nibbled by a small creature, probably a squirrel. Many mushroom species that would be toxic to us, such as the Amanita mushrooms, are eaten with impunity by squirrels.
7 November 2016
Turkey Tails
Although these fungi are quite common at the FWG and elsewhere, they never cease to delight, with their striped fans of brown, cream, and, in this case mostly grey.
7 November 2016
"Old" and new Striped Maples
In our Old Woodlot, Striped Maples are suddenly visible now that the more colourful leaves have fallen from other trees. The tall tree on the left was planted in 1997, the short one - on the right with the white plastic wrap around the trunk - last year.
7 November 2016
Striped Maple seeds
The tree planted in 1997 is finally producing seeds, quite a number of them, although mainly on one branch.
7 November 2016
New resident
This Eastern Garter Snake was rescued from Baseline Road and brought to the FWG this week. It joins many other garter snakes that have become fairly common at the FWG in the last few years.
08-NOV-2016
Red oak (Quercus rubra)
Looking waaaay up to get this photo! Barry's shot gives an excellent idea of just how tall this oak tree is. There is a grey squirrel's nest up there too.
04-NOV-2016
Crabapples (Malus)
There are many crabapples trees around the Fletcher garden, but while most have fruit attractive to birds and squirrels, some crabapples retain their fruit all winter, it being inedible from a wildlife point of view. The next photo shows a domestic apple tree, an interesting comparison to this ornamental crabapple.
04-NOV-2016
Apples (Malus)
There are a couple of trees at the garden with large apples, this being one them. Eventually the fruit will be eaten by wildlife and perhaps a few humans too. But at present they create a visually appealing image with their bright red colour in the sunlight.
04-NOV-2016
Dark-eyed junco
This species is pretty common all over the area in spring and fall, though they don't nest at the garden. Nesting is a bit further northward.
04-NOV-2016
Canada geese
As you can see, some geese are flying one way, some the other, in this photo by Barry. Perhaps a bit confused.
