The air at Genesse Natural Area was fresh, clean and cool.  Several participants were at the Natural  Area to forage for spring edibles.  It was encouraging to find Verpas and a few true morels but likely it was a touch too early.

Several Helvella lacunosa were found with their black caps and white stipes, found on rotting wood.  As well there were several LBM – little brown mushrooms found one of which may be the of the same genus as the fairy mushroom – the Marasius. As usual at this time of the year, several polypores were found – both last year’s and this years birch polypore – Fomitopsis betulina Microstoma protractum or scarlet elf cup showed itself here as well as several wood ears. A long row of luminescent Trametes (likely) were found – have a range of colour on a white base.  ( see photo of log)  but many polypores both from 2023 and 2024 were found.

Puffballs from 2023.

The sounds of many songbirds filled the air – most notably the ohCanada bird – the white-throated sparrow, robins and the song of woodpeckers…

The rain missed the entire time of the foray. Some members continued on to Constable Chelsey Robinson Park where 5-7 large black morels were found and 3-5 bright yellow morels were also found.  See the photo of a basket and a hand (mine) with a large black morel.