That first good drop of rain in the autumn can transform the bush. This year it looks like we’ve had a real ‘autumn break’ … fingers crossed!
While we don’t usually associate autumn with orchids, there are some lovely local species that flower now rather than in the spring. Two such species have appeared over the past week – Parson’s Bands Eriochilus cucullatus and the Autumn Greenhood Diplodium revolutum (formerly Pterostylis revoluta).
Parson’s Bands is a delicate species – it usually occurs as a single flower, sometimes in small loose colonies on open, rocky sites. They are apparently pollinated by native bees, although I’ve never had the good fortune to see a pollinator in action.
Parson’s Bands, Spring Hill Track area, 12th April 2014.
Autumn Greenhoods also grow in loose colonies – they are a tall (~ 15cm), robust species. Like other greenhoods, this species can be overlooked (especially by birdwatchers!) – once you get your eye in however it can be surprising the number that can be found.
Autumn Greenhood, Spring Hill Track area, 12th April 2014.
The robust flower of the Autumn Greenhood.
Natural Newstead 
Hi Geoff, Beautiful pictures of orchids and indeed birds. Hugh and I are enjoying your NNewstead from over here in Buckinghamshire, UK. We have a 30 acre property at Metcalfe East quite near the Mia Mia site of the last post from you! It is lovely to be reminded of that lovely part of the world with your fabulous photos. We have a son in Newstead (daughter-in-law, Liz) and 2 little grandsons, one of whom is particularly interested in birds already, aged nearly 5. Meanwhile we are in the middle of the mad rush of an English spring with wonderful bird life here on the farm… All good wishes to you there from Sally and Hugh
Sally & Hugh Mellor Blackland Farm, Stewkley, Leighton Buzzard, LU7 0EU
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