Jelly Ear

This is a controversially named and re-named fungus. It was originally known as Judas's Ear, a name derived from the shape of the fungus and the belief that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from an elder tree which is one of the main trees that it grows on. The name was shortened to 'Judas Ear' and, in the late 19th century, it became known as 'Jew's Ear'. A further chnage to 'Jelly Ear' was recommended by some authors in the 1950s although both names continue to be used.

An older, hard and dark, example can be seen above the newly emerged one on this dead elder trunk.

I also found one of my favourite fungi, at least in terms of its name, the gothic sounding 'yellow brain fungus' but it was getting rather dark and I couldn't get a decent photograph. Maybe later in the week.