North Fife January 23rd

January 23rd, a relatively mild winter in North Fife and yet snow threatens already lying on the hills of Perthshire as seen from over the River Tay North Fife. Forecast is for more tomorrow at low levels. Brrrr.

The River Tay 22nd January

The River Tay today, a short moment of no rain with Mugdrum Isle splashed with brighter light. A few sand banks exposed by the falling tide.

Moss and Lichens Pitmedden Forest North Fife

Yesterday there was a brief respite from rain, though overcast a walk in the hills into Pitmedden Forest was a delight. So good to exercise after a long sedentary spell. Starting at Loch Mill, puffing and panting along a track I was struck by the vibrant colours of the mosses and lichens. Moisture, perfect conditions.

Lochmill, once the water supply to Newburgh, now up for sale by Scottish Water, Newburgh having first option to buy. A very tranquil spot shielded from most winds, stocked with trout and available for fly fishing.

Tree stump, lichen covered, decaying away proving food for wood wasps and long horned beetles.

 

Lichen with red fruiting ends.

Sphagnum Moss thrives in moist conditions, plenty of that lately.

Occasionally one squelches through standing water along the track.
Pitmedden Forest and more, more still. A wonderful place to visit as walkers, horse riders and mountain bikers do.

The Mansion House Hill of Tarvit North Fife

Hill of Tarvit North Fife January 5th. A wonderful bracing walk around the woods and gardens of the Mansion House. I have never seen such an abundance of unharvested Apples. Last year was brilliant for fruit production in the area, a shame so much has been left to rot away, recycling to the earth but not to animals or human beings.

A powerful image of rotten apples and the connotation that implies.
I have been made aware of significant changes already taking place.
Hill of Tarvit Mansionhouse & Garden News
Historic Scotland / RCAHMS Merger
Avoiding unintended but serious consequences!
Consequences so far have been the loss of Franchise to Hatters a very successful tearoom and an attraction to visitors for culinary delights.
The Gardener of 24 years, the House manager and probably many others. The best apples have gone. .Dispensed with
I just wonder what other scheme is in operation.
National Trust Scotland

Paintings in the Mansionhouse

Will they be safe?