Still dull and cloudy in Oban, but the temperature rose early afternoon to a balmy 7 degrees.

Driving round the back of Oban to Taynuilt, much the prettier route than the A85, I spotted this baby spruce shouting loudly from the top of its fence post ..... " I'm the King of the Ca-astle!" It's parent, totally unwilling to indulge the little sprig, is quiet and calm just behind.

Lichens which decorate the post are a fascinating minefield. I believe the hairy one is one of the many Usnea varieties, once used to create dyes for textiles, but not certain. The tiny variety on top of the post, standing upright, is a bit easier. Commonly known as British Soldiers, its fancy name, according to Wiki, is Cladonia Cristatella. In close up, you can spot the tiny red tips, which make identification much more certain .

As they don't thrive in pollution, Lichens are supposed to be an indication of clean air. Can't argue with that, in this part of Argyll.