“Bird Nest Fungus” 🍄🐦

The common name -bird’s nest fungus- includes species of the genera Crucibulum, Cyathus, and Nidularia of the family Nidulariaceae (order Agaricales), which contains about 60 species.

The hollow fruiting body resembles a nest containing eggs (peridioles). The peridioles carry the spores when they disperse at maturity

It launches its "eggs" (called periodoles - which are protective sacs for the spores) like a cannonball through the air to reproduce!

❗️ This unique method of dispersal is why you’ll sometimes hear bird’s nest fungi referred to as “splash cups.”

They thrive in damp, woodsy environments, often appearing in shady vegetable gardens or woody mulched paths - especially in fall.