The deer park is a hive of activity at the moment as the rut is in full swing. The bucks can be seen and heard 'groaning', the grunting call that attracts females and warns other males away - as the rut progresses the groaning becomes shorter and higher pitched as they call themselves hoarse. The bucks may also be seen fighting as they compete for females. Their antlers clashing can be heard from far away and the sight of two or more bucks battling it out is a sight to be seen. It is a very important season for the deer so we are urging everyone more than ever to stick to the paths and not go in for a closer look, both for your safety (you don't want to be anywhere near those antlers!) and to ensure that mating is not interrupted. The deer are spread all over the park as the males hold their rutting stands so if you follow the WWII walk you are bound to see or hear something!
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| Hygrocybe calyptriformis (Pink waxcap) |
The fantastic weather has continued and we have had a busy weekend with many people enjoying a picnic in the sun or playing rugby in the sport field. The warm weather has kept many insects on the wing later than usual and on today's guided walk we spotted hawker and common darter dragonflies in the deer park.
Earlier this week the wardens were kept busy managing the trees and hedge at the entrance to Confluence Meadow, preparing a hedge along Smethcote lane for laying and continuing with the tree inspections across the estate. I've also been busy sniffing out more fungi so here are a few more to share with you - I'm trying harder than ever with my identification skills but if you know your stuff and can offer any corrections then please do leave a comment!
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Coprinus lagopus (Hare'sfoot inkcap)
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