Jew's Ear

Back in Arnside and I was pleased to find this example of Jew's Ear fungus growing on a dying Alder tree which is its favourite location.
It used to be called Judas's Ear and that may be because Judas is believed to have hanged himself on an Alder tree. It is now often known as Jelly Ear perhaps because this is a less controversial name.

It grows worldwide and the books say it is edible but I have no intention of trying. The extra shows another view.

The tree is covered with several varieties of lichen and I wish I new much more about them. But that would need another lifetime.