Fungus Foray

This past weekend, I attended a Fungus Foray, organized by a local watershed council. There were several different foray groups to choose from, depending on previous mycology experience. I chose the beginner group, and we spent our time in and around a Toyon tree grove. We rambled through the woods in small groups, stopping often to examine various mushrooms, lichens, berries, moss, etc. It was my favorite type of outdoor day, because it felt like we were on a scavenger hunt for mushrooms, but we were also excited about anything else we found. 

The weather was perfect for mushroom foraging: chilly and damp, but not actively raining. After a few hours, we returned to the lecture hall and pooled our discoveries. I was amazed by the variety in the different mushrooms: the richness of the color scale and the textures (bloblike, slimy, gilled, or spiky) made me realize how utterly odd and otherworldly mushrooms are.

Although I took notes during the lectures that were held after the foray, one of the main things I learned was that identifying mushrooms is very involved and challenging. It will certainly be a long but fascinating process of learning to identify even the most common/basic species. 

I also enjoyed going into the darkroom to see phosphorescent mushrooms displayed under blacklight, and I learned that yarns and fibers can be dyed using mushrooms. 

Check out the photos below to see some of the "treasures" of the scavenger hunt!

These little mushrooms grew atop a mossy log

One of many finds near the Toyon grove. 

Purple Bolete mushroom (I think)

After spending a couple of hours at our respective foray sites, we all came back together to examine, admire, and attempt to identify our discoveries

These types of mushrooms were almost translucent! 

Insect galls on oak leaves (spined turban gall on Blue Oak leaf)

People of all levels of mycology applied their knowledge to try to identify our discoveries

Examining phosphorescent mushrooms under blacklight