Senior Species and Recording Officer Tim Sexton discovered an extremely rare fungus at Rutland Water this week. 

Listed as one of the 'World's 100 Most Threatened Species,' the Willow Blister Fungus was discovered for only the second time in England since 1876. 

The Willow Blister Fungus, sometimes referred to as the Cryptomyces Maximus, was spotted by Tim during a survey he was carrying out on the bat boxes in the area.

Tim, who is an officer from Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, found the fungus on a coppiced willow tree. The fungus lives on the dying parts of living willow trees near water and has only been seen less than 100 times since its initial discovery in 1801. 

The fungus can be fussy about where it lives, requiring the correct humidity, tree species and access to water to grow.  

Last year, Tim made another notable discovery, finding Europe's smallest beetle at Rutland Water. This was only the fourth time the beetle had ever been seen in Europe; due to the rarity of the beetle and the fact it measures only 0.4mm. 

In a statement by Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, they said: "[the] discovery highlights the crucial role of protected sites in safeguarding endangered species. Without urgent conservation efforts, species like this could be lost forever. 

"Protecting nature is more important than ever. Support conservation and help save our most threatened wildlife." 

To donate, volunteer or get involved with the vital conservation work at Leicestershire and Rutland Wildlife Trust, visit their website. 

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