Discovering Fabulous Fungi – The Forgotten Kingdom

About Discovering Fabulous Fungi – The Forgotten Kingdom

The Isle of Man Fungus group celebrates its tenth anniversary with a series of events; a lecture, field trips and workshops led by Nev Kilkenny.

Scotland-based professional mycologist Nev Kilkenny has visited the island regularly to support and train local enthusiasts in the Fungus Group since its inception in 2012.

His expertise, popularity, wit and wisdom have encouraged and mentored group members throughout. Nev has verified the identity of more than 300 new species of fungi found in the island by group members and facebook followers.

The events are supported by Culture Vannin, Manx National Heritage and the Isle of Man Woodland Trust.

Talk
The global imperative to increase tree cover to absorb atmospheric carbon and reduce global warming is leading to widespread tree planting, on the Isle of Man, in Scotland and worldwide. New research on the underground life of fungi and tree roots is throwing light on the intimate relationships between fungi and trees. Merlin Sheldrake’s book Entangled Life brought the extraordinary fungal communication in woodlands to the public attention in 2020. Nev looks at how we use this new knowledge to make future-proof land management decisions. Whether you plant trees, forage for fungi or like to learn about and explore our wild landscape this talk should appeal to you.

Refreshments afterwards, second hand wildlife book stall (including fungi books) and retiring collection. Please bring cash.

Forays

On these forays Nev will introduce us to the world of fungi in Manx habitats, explaining key features which can be seen in the field and how to recognise some of the main fungus families. There is all the enjoyment of searching out fungi, enhanced by the commentary of a knowledgeable guide who is experienced in leading forays for all age groups and levels of knowledge. We will be able to name many of our finds and we will collect a small number of specimens for the workshops in the afternoon. Children (10-16) accompanied by adults are also welcome. These events are always popular.

No dogs please. Strong outdoor shoes and rainwear advisable for forays. You may want to bring a basket, hand lens, camera/phone, small pen knife and a fungus field guide if you have one.

Workshops

These workshops should enable you to name the family of fungi you have in front of you, narrow down the pages of your fungus guide and in most cases name the specimen. You will learn the parts of the fungus and what they do and develop indoor identification skills. Examination through the microscope opens up a new appreciation of the beauty and intricacy of our Manx Fungi. This is suitable for adults but not children as there are sharp blades and chemicals in use, as well as the odd poisonous fungus. An event for those who like to take a closer look!

* + Booking Fee