Hints of Winter Colour

Mild weather and some sunshine saw many visitors enjoying a walk around the reserve this afternoon.  Although the reserve is still in its winter clothes there is a little colour to be spotted.  Blackberries, enjoyed by humans, birds and small mammals during the autumn are long gone, but there are still some leaves showing colour.

Rose Hips are not enjoyed by many animals and remain on the prickly stems throughout the winter, although as the season progresses they look less than pristine.

Especially after rain, green lichens growing on branches can be easily seen.  

Green mosses cover some tree trunks and stand out against the dark bark.  Some species can be found as tiny clumps on large stones. 

Out on the moor there are hints of yellow as the Gorse is beginning to flower.