09 September, 2016
Fungi fun at Loch Leven
A free fungi foray takes place at Loch Leven later this month, as plenty of mushrooms and toadstools emerge from the undergrowth for autumn.
Scottish Natural Heritage (SNH) staff will be joined again this year by local mycologist Richard Smith for this popular walk, searching for all types of fungi at Loch Leven on September 25. The walk is suitable for all, whether seasoned mushroom pickers or novices wishing to know more.
In past years, there have been as many as 60 species identified during the forays, so the event is a great way to learn more about the variety of mushrooms locally.
Nothing represents the end of summer quite like the emergence of fungi. With 200,000 species identified worldwide, and over 3000 larger fungi in the UK, the variety on display can be astonishing. There has been a fascination with fungi throughout history for medicinal, psychoactive and culinary purposes. Fungi are also essential recyclers in the woodland, feeding on rotting materials and opening up wooded areas for new growth.
Call the Loch Leven NNR reserve office on 01577 864439 to book a place. The walk is free, and access is moderate, with some off-path areas accessed to search for particular species.
The walk takes place Sunday 25 September from 2-4pm, starting at the Findatie car park. Water proofs and stout footwear are recommended.
ENDS
Media queries - For more information, contact SNH press & public relations officer, Vicki Mowat, on 0131 316 2659 or vicki.mowat@snh.gov.uk or the main SNH press office on 01463 725 022.
Loch Leven National Nature Reserve is one of about 50 NNRs in Scotland. These are special places which showcase some of the best of Scotland’s nature. They provide unique opportunities to visit, enjoy and learn more about Scotland’s nature. For more information, see www.nnr-scotland.org.uk .
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NatureScot is Scotland's nature agency. Responding to the twin crises of biodiversity loss and climate change, we work to protect and restore nature by inspiring everyone to value our natural world. Our goal is a nature-rich, net-zero future for Scotland. For more information, visit our website at www.nature.scot
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