Foraging

In my opinion, fungi are one of the most underrated taxas (just behind fishes). I thought I might go to grad school to study fungi but quickly realized there is no money in it, so instead I made it a hobby! Foraging is a great way to explore nature and get to know the ecology of a forest. Probably about 90% of the time I go out foraging I don't find choice edibles, but I enjoy finding and learning about all the diverse mushroom species I come across. 

"All mushrooms are edible, some only once in a lifetime" - Terry Pratchett

I take that quote to heart. I only eat mushrooms if I am 100% sure of an ID. Some of my favorites pictured above include lobster mushrooms, maitake, chicken of the woods, and morels. I also really enjoy eating lions mane and giant puffballs. Pictured below are some other notable species which I didn't eat but just found cool!