ruffled feathers

It’s autumn, and the hedgerows are bright with berries. But there are other flashes of red, too, competing with the bryony, hips and haws.

This feathery tangle is Robin’s pincushion, which I found on the wild roses around the racecourse.

Pretty as it looks, it’s actually a gall caused by wasp larvae. I’m guessing that this makes it a response by the plant to an attack.

All I can say is that I wish I looked as good when I get stressed out and defensive.