Did you know we have chickens in the woods here at the Falls of Clyde? They are completely wild and free to roam. Well not that they can because these chickens are actually fungi!

Often referred to as chicken of the woods or sulphur shelf, this fungus (Laetiporus sulphurous) is found on living deciduous trees, especially oak. It is a type of bracket fungus, so called due to the way they sit on the tree. It is fan shaped and often forms overlapping groups.

The name chicken of the woods comes from the fact that, when young, the fungus tastes like chicken. However, DO NOT eat any mushrooms or toadstools unless you are experienced in their identification. There are thousands of species of mushrooms and toadstools in Britain, many of which look the same and can be deadly poisonous.

Its other name of sulphur shelf is purely a description of the fungus. The shelf like structure can be a vivid yellow colour.

Keep an eye out for all the different fungi popping up at the moment.

Rhian – Seasonal Ranger