Moss lawn

A day spent surveying an interesting area near King's Lynn, comprising inland dunes, heathland, lakes and open woodland. The area has long been quarried for silica sand, which is used in the glass-making and ceramic industry. Silica sand is deemed a nationally important material and this part of Norfolk produces around 12 per cent of the UK total. The worked out pits are now an important area for wildlife, and are also scenically very attractive. 


This mossy area was particularly eye-catching, the yellows and reds of the capsules forming a vibrant contrast to the fresh green foliage of the birches and pines. This particular moss is Dense Haircap, which particularly favours relatively dry, acidic habitats, in contrast to its close relative Common Haircap which is a species of damp habitats, particularly wet moors in the uplands.