The mushroom season is off to a good start this year. Despite the drought earlier this year which affected many vegetable and cereal crops, mushrooms appear to be plentiful in Estonian forests. But beware, there have been five reports of mushroom poisoning so far this season so people are advised to stick to the rule of only picking the mushrooms they unambiguously know. If in doubt, don't pick it and definitely don't eat it.
The three most deadly mushrooms found in the Estonian forest are the death cap (Amanita phalloides), destroying angel (Amanita virosa) and funeral bell (Galerina marginata) as they contain amatoxins. These liver-toxic mushrooms will cause an agonising death due to liver failure if medical treatment is not administered immediately after consumption.
This is a death cap mushroom that I found in the forest in Hiiumaa a few years ago. It has a slight green tinge on top of the cap and an egg shaped bulb at the base, out of which the mushroom sprouts. Avoid at all costs. It is the most deadly fungus in the world.
Chanterelles are inarguably the most sought after mushroom in Estonia. These yellow mushrooms have a very distinctive appearance and are used to make delcious creamy sauces and soups. But beware! Know the difference between the true Chanterelle and the false Chanterelle (Hygrophoropsis aurantiaca) which is poisonous!
Mushroom picking is an Estonian national passtime. The season begins in July and ends in October.
