Leopard Earthball - Scleroderma areolatum

Approximately 2 to 5 cm across. The skin is smooth and creamy yellow in colour whilst the spots are brownish, numerous and rather like those of a leopard. The spores are purple-grey or blackish.

On the ground, often under oak or other trees, and frequently near woodland edge.

Late summer and autumn.

Usually occurs in groups.

Widespread and fairly frequent in Britain.

Fairly frequent in Leicestershire and Rutland, though less common than Scleroderma citrinum.