A month ago Asham Wood on the Mendips was full of wild daffodils in flower but now the Early Purple Orchids (Orchis mascula) are at their best (above) along with Bluebells and Ransoms (below)

Orchis mascula is generally a woodland species (although last week we featured it in Dorset grassland) and really enjoys well maintained coppice like that in Asham Woods.

Two members of the Lily Family to hunt for in ancient woodland at this time of year are Herb Paris (Paris quadrifolia) and Solomons Seal (Polygonatum multiflorum).

This is definitely a good week to explore your local ancient woodland.