By Abbas Nazil
An eight-year-old nature lover in Oxfordshire, UK has shared a captivating reflection on the beauty and diversity of fungi discovered during a recent visit to his local nature reserve, once a Victorian rubbish dump but now thriving with wildlife.
On a damp, mild day, Jasper explored the woodland floor, where brightly coloured autumn leaves and dew-covered berries created a magical atmosphere.
At first, he found few fungi, but deeper into the forest, he discovered a variety of species growing on decaying logs and tree stumps, each with its own shape, texture, and colour.
Using field guides and the Shroomify app to identify them, Jasper encountered species like the veiled poisonpie, glistening from the rain; the smoky polypore, with its striking yellow underside and dark circular ring; and the honey mushroom, known for its golden-cream caps.
One mysterious brown, flaky-capped fungus puzzled him—possibly a dusky puffball or a shaggy scalycap.
Through research, he later learned that while the veiled poisonpie is poisonous, it is still eaten in some parts of Mexico, and that certain honey mushrooms possess bioluminescent qualities, glowing faintly in the dark.
Jasper’s grandmother, however, viewed fungi differently, calling them nuisances in her garden.
Despite their mixed reputation, Jasper described fungi as fascinating, transforming lifeless stumps into vibrant natural art.
He said whether dull or bright, fungi hold an undeniable beauty and mystery, reminding us that even decay in nature can give rise to life and wonder.
