Avoid These Deadly Look-alike Mushrooms Found In Michigan

I don't know much about mushrooms unless you include having them on a pizza; in that case, then consider me an expert.

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now that spring has arrived I've been seeing some friends on social media posting about morel mushroom hunting or about how that they wanted to give it a try.

I love the idea of taking a walk in the woods, enjoying mother nature, and collecting some tasty mushrooms in the process.

However, the thing that scares me, and is why I've never gone, is that I'm afraid I would mistake a poisonous mushroom for one that is safe and get really sick or possibly die.

Does Michigan Have Poisonous Mushrooms?

Michigan has a lot of mushrooms that are poisonous, some might make you sick while others could possible kill you if ingested.

The MSU College of Agriculture and Natural Resources says that in Michigan there are at least 50 different types of poisonous mushrooms.

Some wildlife might be able to eat them, but they are not safe for humans or your pets.

Read More: 25 Things Michigan Is Known And Famous For

How To Tell If A Mushrooms Is Poisonous

Experts recommend that if you're going mushroom hunting that you first do some research so you have a better understanding on what is safe to eat and not.

If possible you should go with someone that's done it before and knows what's safe to consume and what's not.

Good RX says some features that might help you to distinguish potentially harmful mushrooms include:

• The color of the cap
• Spots on the cap
• Gill-like structures that hang under the cap
• Size and length of the stalk

One thing you might want to consider is joining a group or club online such as the Michigan Mushroom Hunters Club.

They have social gatherings and offer educational programs to help you better understand and identify mushrooms.