A Polycheate

Spotted this worm in a small pool of water at the top of the beach in Lower Largo. Very active, twisting and turning, bluey-green in colour, about 9 to 10 inches long. I think it's a ragworm (Nereis sp.)

Autumn and Winter Storm Damage

Damage to the end of Lower Largo Pier. A triangular boulder has been up-ended in the picture above.

 The end of the damaged pier seen from the beach below.

A boat from the harbour damaged in a storm holed along the side. Presumably the 'No Parking' sign doesn't apply to boats!!

Signs of Spring

Although it was back to winter today with wintry showers, there are signs of Spring. The first daffodil in our garden has been out for about a week now, actually earlier than last year by about 3 weeks.

A ladybird in a budding walllower.

Coral Spot Fungus

Coral Spot Fungus - Nectria cinnabarina - found on dead branches and twigs. This example was found near the path at the top of the Massney Braes in Lundin Links.

Many-zoned Polypore

Many-zoned polypore - Coriolus versicolor - growing on a log near the path at the top of the Massney Braes in Lundin Links. The upper surface shows contrasting, concentric zones of black, grey and brown with a paler undulating margin.

Trees in the Serpentine Walk - 2

Ivy berries. Ivy - Hedera helix - is an important plant for wildlife. The berries ripen in late winter when there are few other berries about.

Ivy flowers from a photo taken previously.

Hazel catkins against a blue sky.

The attractive bark on a silver birch tree.

Greenfinch

Was pleased to see a greenfinch on the feeder this morning. A few years ago they were frequent visitors but their numbers have been decimated by an infection. This is caused by the protozoal parasite Trichomonas gallinae which progressively blocks the birds throat and prevents the birds from swallowing food. Birds with the disease can have fluffed-up plumage and show signs of lethargy, they may also drool saliva.
There is also a goldfinch on the lower perch.