Sometimes finding a fungus is the beginning of a much bigger mystery. In 2024 I found what looked like a Lentinellus growing on a conifer log in Denbighshire. There were a few things about it that didn't quite add up, though. Most obviously, it didn't have the characteristic aniseed smell I would expect from Lentinellus cochleatus, and it was growing on conifer rather than the more usual broadleaved wood. Unfortunately, the fruiting bodies were already well past their best. It was late in the...

One of the things I enjoy most about running a moth trap is the simple fact that every morning comes with a sense of anticipation. Most days bring a familiar collection of regular species, perhaps a seasonal highlight or two, and occasionally something a little unexpected. But every now and then a trap produces something that makes you stop, take a second look, and realise you are looking at something genuinely special. This morning turned out to be one of those mornings. As I was working...

Early spring in North Wales brings a flush of low-growing colour to verges, gardens, field edges and disturbed ground. Among the most familiar are the dead-nettles — a group of plants that look like stinging nettles but don’t sting at all. At first glance, several species look very similar. Here we take a closer look at three that are all flowering now: Red Dead-nettle ( Lamium purpureum ), Cut-leaved Dead-nettle ( Lamium hybridum ), and Spotted Dead-nettle ( Lamium maculatum ). With a bit of...