I originally chose the Mushrooms group so I could learn how to identify and find edible mushrooms, but after the Bioblitz session with an actual mycologist, I am more hesitant  to eat things I find growing from the ground.

Most of the mushrooms we found we relatively harmless; there were several that were edible under certain conditions. For example, the “Inky Cap” is eaten by some people, but never with alcohol since it can cause a nauseating reaction. For that reason, it is sometimes given to alcoholics to help treat their disease.

At first, my group was pretty unenthused about walking around looking for mushrooms. Many of them hadn’t actually signed up for the group, and were just put there when they got to the Macaulay building. However, our specialist’s enthusiasm and love for mycology was so influential, that pretty soon everyone was keeping their eyes peeled for anything resembling fungi.

The highlight of the session occurred on our way back to the headquarters of the gardens. Our group leader pulled us to the base of an old tree and directed our attention to an inconspicuous little white mushroom. I though he was going to point out a common edible species, like ones you might find in a grocery store. However, once he spoke the name, it was clear that it was only going to be edible…once.

Destroying Angel.

Its white flesh was unmarked; there were no bright spots that yelled “toxic”. However, as our guide gleefully pointed out, once ingested, the toxins in the mushroom would begin to eat at your vital organs, and you’ll be dead within 24 hours.

And that’s enough to deter me from foraging by myself!