October is very much a month of transition. It is difficult to think of areas that do not change. Trees turn from soft green leafy humps into bare bristly snags, and shed useful lumps of firewood. One set of birds move off, whilst new flocks drop in to enjoy our milder climate. I have an in-built worry about the birds, as they set out over the ocean. Perhaps well over a hundred miles to go. All right for swallows, who are always on the wing, and can make the trip in 3-4 hours. But little warblers who hide in bushes and never fly more than a few yards. ???. Oh dear!

Virtually all butterflies, moths and dragonflies disappear for the winter. What's left? Fish (coarse versions at least) keep swimming, and in my garden the grey squirrels and the foxes carry on as normal.

The last month has been quite moist at times, and many sorts of fungi are now to be found. Some, like the bright red fly agaric, which finds its way into many children's storybooks, are fond of the local soil. They look pretty, but like most of the toadstools, will make you ill if you eat them.

Several walks this month in the new 'Dorset on Your Doorstep' dealing with fungi. Studland, Avon Heath, Christchurch, Hengistbury Head and a nameless DWT site are all having walks, but none locally. In fact the only local walk is on 17th on Canford Heath, meet Gravel Hill, 14.00 hrs.

Various walks, conservation tasks and boat/bird trips to be found. DCV are working in Morden Bog on 9th/10th, and Branksome Dene Chine on 31st. The old rhododendron enemy once again!

The October bird boat sails on the 14th (01929 462383)

Pine Springs volunteers are at work on October 10th and 24th. (672625)

Useful numbers:

Other useful wildlife web sites for wildlife news in this area are:

• http://www.greenlink.co.uk/
• http://www.wildlifetrust.org.uk/dorset
• http://www.dorsetbutterflies.com

Prepared for Broadstone.net by
dudley.hull

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