Two Of The World's Most Toxic Mushrooms Can Be Found In Massachusetts Each Year
By E Jamar|Published January 19, 2021
×
E Jamar
Author
E Jamar is a published writer based in Milwaukee, WI. Despite being a Midwesterner at heart, you can often find them trekking throughout the states and discovering new hidden gems. When they're not traveling, you can find them discussing disability issues, cuddling their pug puppy, and checking out new local spots.
Mushrooms are some of the most gorgeous creations in Massachusetts nature, but going foraging can come with great risks. While some mushrooms are edible, many of them are poisonous and look very similar to safe mushrooms. In fact, Massachusetts is home to some of the most toxic mushrooms that you can find, so while these fantastic fungi might be tempting to taste, it’s best to leave foraging to the experts. There are two fungi in Massachusetts that are especially poisonous, so you’ll want to watch out!
Massachusetts is home to numerous different mushrooms, and while some are safe to eat, some are extremely toxic.
Only an expert mushroom identifier (known as a mycologist) should advise you on consuming any wild mushrooms. Many mushrooms that are safe to eat look almost identical to poisonous fungi.
Two toxic mushrooms in particular are often found in Massachusetts, and they're some of the most poisonous.
One of these mushrooms is so poisonous, it's been given the nickname of "destroying angel" or "death angel." The other is commonly mistaken for a Chanterelle.
Advertisement
The first mushroom we'll be looking at is the "destroying angel" mushroom. This toxic mushroom is so poisonous it can even kill you.
The Amanita virosa species of mushroom can be found throughout the eastern part of North America and is known to be one of the most lethal fungi there is.
This white mushroom species has many other types and lookalikes, so it's important to stay away from all wild mushrooms. The odds of finding this poisonous mushroom in Massachusetts are very high.
Another toxic mushroom that's popular in our state is the Jack-o-lantern mushroom.
Omphalotus olearius is an orange fungus that looks a lot like a common chanterelle. While this type of mushroom is less deadly, the fact that it's so easy to mistake for an edible mushroom makes it extremely dangerous.
Toxic mushrooms are hiding throughout Massachusetts, especially after it rains, so it's important to know that only experts should be foraging.
Looking at these beautiful fungi is always a good idea, but it's never a good idea to taste them. A common myth is that cooking poisonous mushrooms will make them safe to eat, but in fact, even the fumes from cooking them can harm you. It's best to leave fungi foraging to the experts.
It's easy to see that mushrooms are magnificent, but here in Massachusetts, we're home to two of the most toxic shrooms around.
For more information on poisonous wild mushrooms, you can visit the Poison Control website right here. If you think you've been poisoned, call the National Poison Control Hotline immediately at 1-800-222-1222, or 911.
While we do not recommend eating wild mushrooms found in Massachusetts, they sure can be beautiful. If you go mushroom hunting, don’t forget to go share photos from your Massachusetts outdoor adventures with us in our Massachusetts Nature Lovers group on Facebook, or by tagging us at #onlyinmassachusetts on Instagram for a chance to be featured!
