Friends of Murphys Point Park

Scientific name: Inonotus obliquus

This week we turn our focus to the fungi kingdom. The fungus pictured above is Chaga, a parasitic species that grows from trees and forms this large, burnt-looking conk. Chaga is most typically found on birch trees, but can be seen on other tree species. Traditionally, Chaga has been used for its medicinal ability of immune system regulation. As a reminder, foraging is prohibited in all provincial parks, including Murphys Point. If foraging elsewhere, do so with a professional to ensure your safety and enhance your knowledge.

Scientific name: Vanessa atlanta

The Red Admiral is one of many beautiful butterfly species that can be found in Murphys Point. This medium-sized butterfly is recognized most easily by the red – orange bands across its wings. As it is a migratory species, the Red Admiral arrives in the park around May to enjoy the warm Ontario summer!

It’s time for another #SpeciesOfTheWeek posting, and another discussion of the extraordinary nature of dragonflies – specifically, the Common Whitetail (Plathemis lydia). This photo is of a mature male Common Whitetail, easily recognized by the thick, white abdomen (tail). The colouration is actually the result of ‘pruinosity.’, a waxy substance that male Common Whitetails use as a territorial threat. Other dragonflies and damselflies use pruinosity as a way to identify each other. Juvenile males and mature females do not develop pruinosity – identifying adult male Common Whitetails is, therefore, a cinch. With a flight period that lasts from early June until late August, Common Whitetails are often seen by campers and visitors to the park.