EAGLE eyed visitors to a Swanage country park spotted something seemingly alien last week.
A bright red fungus—initially mistaken for a plastic ball—was located by two visitors to Durlston Country Park last Thursday (October 17).
The fungus, called Red Cage, Lattice Fungus or Basket Stinkhorn , is a rare find in the UK and more commonly found in central and southern Europe.
“Two members of the public came into the castle after seeing what they thought was a plastic ball on the timeline trail in front of the castle,” a Durlston Country Park spokesperson said.

Picture: Durlston Country Park
“It turns out it isn’t a plastic ball, it is a fruiting body of a fungi species called Red Cage or Lattice Fungus (Clathrus ruber).
“This is a rare find on mainland Britain however it is common in central and southern Europe, as well as the Channel Islands.
“Inside is a dark green coat called the gleba; this attracts flies through its smell and sticks to their legs so it can be carried away to reproduce.
“This species of fungi has been recorded in the Pleasure Grounds at least since 2006, so take a walk to our Pleasure Grounds and keep your eyes peeled.”
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