The Truth about These ‘Bird Nests’ in the Hudson Valley

If you take a winter hike in the Hudson Valley, you might come across a very improbable sight... but what looks like an abandoned bird nest could be something far more interesting.

Like many ecosystems, New York State has several plants and animals that look like something they're not. While some of the more famous examples like walking stick insects get most of the spotlight, there's a few more you should know about.

"Impressionist" Organisms in New York State

The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (NYS DEC) recently took to Facebook to share one of the most interesting native fungi in New York (below). It joins a few spectacular examples of "impressionist" organisms.

"Bird's Nest Fungi" in New York

As the NYS DEC shares, one of the coolest features of the "bird's nest fungi" is the way it spreads its spores. The "eggs" hold its spores, and are sent flying out of the "nest" by falling water. The video below shows the process in slow motion.

Other Awesome Fungi in New York State

The "bird's nest" fungi, along with the more creepily-named "dead man's fingers", are just some of the fascinating organisms New Yorkers may come across (although the creepiest one might be the "bleeding tooth" fungi). It all depends on where you look, however.

The forest floors across New York State would be the best place to start your hunt for any native fungi, including the special species mentioned above. Get your search started with one of the beautiful hikes below.