Fungi, mosses and lichen

I went north over the Kessock Bridge onto the Black Isle today, determined to get to the top of The Ord, a large plantation covered hill on the right as you go over. It's 190m above the Inner Moray Firth and is very damp under the trees, just the place for mosses, lichens and fungi. There were so many I had to slow down and restrict myself to only taking shots of those in the best condition. A word of warning! In order to safely identify any mushroom you have to be certain of EVERY ONE of the identifying characteristics given in the description and to match the relevent picture with your find. Even if ONLY ONE characteristic does not compare, it is best to assume for safety reasons that your fungus is NOT the one described and illustrated.

At the very top is the ruins of a Pictish Fort which had the most stunning views over the Inner Firth. It was burnt down by raiders and the fire was so intense that some of the stones fused together. This suggests the use of a particularly efficient accelerant. Later barbarism is the planting of the conifer trees right across the top of The Ord and as they have matured they have blocked off all of the wonderful vistas. When this plantation is commercially cropped I can see hoards of photographers making their way to the top to capture the view.