Nature in North Merchiston Cemetery

 I had a wee wander with a friend around North Merchiston Cemetery yesterday. We were mostly looking for ladybirds and fungi. 

We found some ladybirds hibernating on gravestones, including this Harlequin.

We also found this Common Shiny Woodlouse (Oniscus asellus) which on closer examination turned out to be dead.

We also found a fair amount of fungi, including lots of Coral Spot.

We also found some fungi on fallen holly leaves, which we thought was Holly Speckle Fungus.

And this fungus, which is White Brain Fungus (Exidia thuretiana).

 This odd looking yellow growth isn't a fungus, but a slime mould, possibly Eggshell slime mould (sorry for the poor quality of the photo!)

As I was leaving the cemetery, I saw a Grey Wagtail! These aren't uncommon birds, but this was the first I've ever seen in the cemetery and it's unusual to see them so far from water! I tried to get a photo, but the wagtail was very busy, rushing around, and my photos didn't turn out. A Grey Squirrel did however pose for a photo.

If you're in the UK, remember that 12 Days Wild starts on Christmas Day! Get out and about and enjoy the winter wildlife! I'll certainly be taking part, though probably won't be blogging about it every day!