Fungi in Epping Forest should be left alone warns chief
They are urging people not to take wild mushrooms and to leave them untouched
Visitors, foragers, and social media influencers are being urged to leave wild mushrooms untouched in Epping Forest as conservators prepare for the start of the autumn fungi season.
The City of London Corporation, which manages Epping Forest as a registered charity, is reminding visitors that picking fungi is prohibited under Forest byelaws.
They are reminding people that videos and posts showing someone taking fungi can lead to others doing the same.
Warmer weather has prompted the early arrival of some fungi.
Epping Forest is nationally recognised for its fungal diversity and supports hundreds of recorded species. Many play a vital role in the health of the Forest, helping recycle nutrients, supporting wildlife, and helping preserve some 55,000 ancient trees.
The warning comes as fungi-related content continues to grow in popularity on social media, with posts showcasing unusual mushrooms and foraging finds attracting large audiences online. Even after leaving the Forest, users could be subject to fines or prosecution.
Chair of the City Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, Caroline Haines, said:
"Epping Forest is one of the country's most important habitats for fungi, and many species depend on being left undisturbed.
"We know people are fascinated by mushrooms and want to share their discoveries online. Many influencers and visitors may not realise that picking fungi is not permitted in the Forest, but posts showing mushrooms being collected can encourage others to follow suit.
"We want everyone to enjoy the Forest and experience its remarkable wildlife. Our message is simple: click, don't pick."