As our highly anticipated Autumn fungi forager course approaches, we would like to introduce Neville Kilkenny, who will expertly unveil this extraordinary fifth kingdom to you.

With autumn soon beginning, here at Woodlore our attention is turning downward to the forest floor.

Amongst the colourful palette that is the fallen leaf litter from this years growing season, emerges an enormous array of fungi.

We recently spoke with Neville in readiness to welcome our students and this is what he had to say…

How and when did this journey into mycology begin for you?

“21 years ago, I attended a fungi foray with Prof. Roy Watling, retired senior mycologist from the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh (RBGE). Since that day, fungi became my passion which has led to a fascinating career working with these enigmatic and complex organisms”

We always enjoy working with you but what keeps you returning to run this course with Woodlore?

“Woodlore provide an environment where anyone would feel at home, so it is a pleasure to teach with them. The support of the instructors and the camp infrastructure create a perfect setting for clients, whose enthusiasm always amazes me. The location of the course is amazing for fungal diversity and unusual finds. Most importantly, Woodlore upholds values which I hold dear: The more one learns and understands, the more one respects and values the environment of which we are custodians.”

What excites you the most about the Autumn fungi forager course?

“The fungi of course! Seriously though – it’s a rare opportunity to completely immerse yourself and focus on one thing, away from the distractions of our busy lives”

What do you love about the habitat found on our private course site?

“The site is superb, as it takes in so many diverse habitats including ancient woodland, grassland, and plantation which guarantees a broad range of fungi and demonstrates their loyalty to the ecosystems which they underpin”

What has been the most interesting species found on the course?

“Cortinarius splendens, an uncommon webcap known only from old beechwoods of which there are plenty at this site”

Tell us about your other work that you get involved with? What does a mycologist’s day look like?

“My work is focussed mostly on conservation. I work with statutory agencies, as well as other NGOs, to identify conservation priorities, threatened habitats and vulnerable species. I advise on infrastructure developments that impact upon fungal biodiversity and on habitat management interventions. I also teach courses for organisations such as RBGE, where I am a Research Associate”

Can you share a favourite recipe – all of us at Woodlore particularly enjoy your culinary delights!

“A recent discovery was Beefsteak mushroom jerky – you marinade thin slices of this bracket fungus in a chipotle sauce or elderberry vinegar and then put it in the drier, delicious!”

“What is your favourite edible fungi and where might we find this?”

“Often the simplest things are the best – nothing beats chanterelles on toast. Look under beech in England, but you’ll find the best ones in our wet Scottish birch woods”

Thank you so much Neville, we cannot wait to sit around the campfire and discuss the day’s finds with you this autumn!

Callum Hilder – Aspirant Instructor and Marketing Manager