Lichens and Mosses

During dry spells lichens and mosses lose water and can become very dry.  Once it rains they absorb water and are soft to the touch.  It also makes them more easily spotted.  These lichens are growing on the Blackthorn near the Voley Pond.

A Dog Lichen, whose specific identity is still in the hands of the experts, grows on decaying wood.

Mosses grow on many different substrates.  This Pincushion Moss is growing on stone. It is just beginning to produce its spore capsules.

Once the lichen and moss have grown so they provide places for seeds to rest and germinate.   Fungus may also appear.