the presence of wonder
Studying lichens in a local cemetery a purely natural habitat represents a mutual life giving partnership between an algae and a fungus, each depending on and co-existing with each other. The algae receive moisture, protection and necessary salts in solution from the fungus. In return algae make organic food by using their chlorophyll; it then supplies this to the fungi.
Lichens feed on air and diet on dust, they endure drought more efficiently than any other living organism. They steal nothing from their host other than a place to sit. The nitrogen they need for their growth seems to be supplied by the birds that perch on the grave stones. These plants are of extraordinary interest with lichens being unable to grow in areas of degradation and I believe we should aim for air fit for lichens and rivers fit for trout.
Lichens are a close collaboration between a fungus and a photosynthesizing organism usually an algae. They prosper while other species go into hibernation. However, lichens are species indicators and recognise subtle changes within the atmosphere (bell weathers) which do not register with humans; they can smell mankind’s influences which infuses the air itself.
It’s all about co-operation with others which can achieve many worthwhile things in life (a lesson for us all). By always being on the lookout for the presence of wonder would help us to imagine how we could be taught by lichen. Whilst studying the lichen in a local cemetery I found myself in the company of many beautiful brown hares (Lepus Europaeus). In winter they would feed on the lichen and would also gorge themselves on many variable types of grasses growing around the site.
The abundance of Chaffinches also frequenting this special area would gather nesting materials such as mosses, lichens and gossamer, (spiders’ webs) watching their aerobatics with a flurry of wings and darting to and fro would help to cheer a cold and dreary day.
He does not sing for joy however, the melodious notes which please us so much are actually a challenge, an assertion of rights and a warning. Finding a rival trespasser within his domain he would instantly spread his wings, revealing his white wing bars so as to ward off his rivals. When courting his lady however, he will depend chiefly upon his grand pink waistcoat to win her regard.
In this special place where loss and sadness prevail, what riches of life and wonder grow and exist there and which are to be found in abundance. It is to church yards and cemeteries that botanists, lichenologists, entomologists and mammologists amongst others turn for the chance of making exciting discoveries.
