Magic Mushrooms

OK, you stoners, move on, this is not that kind of entry.


For those interested in the wide variety of mushrooms that grow wild in Alaska (the rest of you), here's a small survey:


This is a bolete, a large mushroom with pores rather than gills underneath. But is it the tasty Chestnut Bolete, or the nasty Bitter Bolete? Only an expert knows for sure...



I don't know what this is, but it was large and showy. It could be related to the Chanterelle or it could be a Lactarius or Milky mushroom, so known for copious amounts of white latex that oozes out when you slice into it. Many of the Milky species will give you quite a nasty tummy ache!



Ah, the Fly Agaric, so named because it is said to stun flies. In humans it causes delerium, raving, and profuse sweating.


Other fun mushroom names are: Witches' Butter, Fried Chicken Mushroom, Hated Amanita, and Corpse Finder. Those mushroom experts have all the fun don't they!




Last but not least, here is a mushroom that strongly resembles the Destroying Angel. The Destroying Angel reportedly tastes great. After a few days, you vomit profusely. Then you feel better. About 2 weeks later you have convulsions, lapse into a coma, and die.

Bon Appetit!