Fungus and Dartfords - Surrey Uncommon - Episode 1 - November

Episode 1 of Surrey Uncommon takes you on an educational journey through Horsell Common in Surrey, a historic heathland famous as the Martian landing site in H.G. Wells' War of the Worlds. This episode focuses on autumn wildlife. First, we talk to local fungi expert Richard Alder who takes us on a fungus foray on the Common, identifying various species including sulphur tuft, brown roll-rim, and amethyst deceiver. Remember never ever eat any mushrooms or fungus unless you are an expert (and as Richard tells us, even they get it wrong!) The second segment features Tim Britt-Searle from the Thames Basin Heaths Partnership discussing the Dartford Warbler, a rare bird that has evolved specifically to live in our heathland environments. The episode covers the importance of heathland conservation, the role of volunteers in habitat management, and provides practical advice for visitors on how to responsibly enjoy these natural spaces while protecting the wildlife that depends on them. Thanks to the Horsell Common Preservation Society, Thames Basin Heaths Partnership, Richard Alder, and Chris Southwell for our theme music.