Bird's nest fungi are fascinating! These tiny, moisture-loving
fungi grow in wooded areas, including the woods along the Forest
Trail at Prairie Ridge. What is a bird's nest fungus? Bird's
nest fungi are part of the fungus family Nidulariaceae. You can
distinguish them from other fungi by their unique bird's nest-
like shape, complete with eggs inside. They are decomposers that
feed on rotting wood, so you typically find them in damp, wooded
areas. Where are bird's nest fungi found? Bird's nest fungi are
very common and found in moist areas throughout the world. They
are especially common in areas that have been enriched or
landscaped with wood chips or wood mulch. What are the "eggs"
inside the nests? Bird's nest fungi have a fascinating method of
reproduction! The "eggs" inside the nests contain fungal spores,
which are effectively the seeds of the fungus. The bird's nest
shape of the fungus creates a splash up so that when it rains,
raindrops that fall into the cups at just the right angle fling
the eggs fa