Soil & small creatures
Mushroom
A surprise that pops up after rain — look, never touch.
Mushrooms are not plants. They are part of a fungus, and most of the fungus grows hidden underground as thin threads.
This friend is very quiet, so you're hearing the place where it lives.
Interesting facts
- A mushroom is just a small part of a fungus that grows above ground.
- Most of a fungus is made of tiny threads hidden in the soil or wood.
- Fungi help break down dead leaves and wood into soil.
- Mushrooms make tiny spores instead of seeds.
Where it lives
Damp, shady places: lawns, forests, old logs and leaf piles, often after rain.
It might be…
- Popping up after rain
- Growing on an old log
- Releasing tiny spores
Why it matters
Fungi are nature's recyclers. They turn dead wood and leaves into soil that helps new plants grow.
Being a good friend
- Look with your eyes only, and keep your hands away.
- Notice its shape, colour and where it's growing.
- Look for more mushrooms nearby.
Please don't
- Never touch or eat a wild mushroom — some are very poisonous.
- Don't kick or break them.
- If a small child or pet goes near one, tell a trusted adult.
Mission
Mushroom Detective
After rain, look in shady places with a trusted adult.