My brush with a Destroying Angel

Andy's tale of this deadly fruiting body

It was one of the most gorgeous mushrooms I have ever seen. To say it was white was an understatement. It almost glowed whiteness and purity in the dark, dank forest floor.

It was about 10cm tall and elegant like a ballerina on tip toes. The cap was smooth and unblemished in a sort of bell shape hanging down like a closed umbrella. Before long I was down on my knees before this thing- trying to get a sniff!

Smell, you must understand is a very important (and sometimes crucial) part of the identification process.

I subsequently learned it was a Destroying Angel (Amanita virosa) – one of the five most deadliest mushrooms on earth and it was growing near my house!

The name "Destroying Angel" for this mushroom is a reference to its deadly nature. The word angel in its name seems somewhat contradictory, given its lethal characteristics. The name most likely hails from its deceptively innocent and pure white appearance. However, this angelic façade hides its true nature. It is capable of causing severe liver and kidney damage and often death, if ingested. It could be mistaken, when foraging, for similar looking and edible species such button or meadow mushrooms. Great care should be taken around these innocent looking things.

Learn more about Mushrooms…

If you want to learn a bit more about mushrooms, how to identify some of the common ones and why they are so important to life on earth then join me for an introduction TONIGHT!

Photo by Andrew Ridley on Unsplash

My online talk “The Secret Life of Mushrooms – A Beginner’s Guide to Fungi” starts at 7pm .

There are still a few places left. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-secret-life-of-mushrooms-a-beginners-guide-to-fungi-tickets-746145500277

Hopefully see you there! If the event is sold out by the time you read this, contact us, we may be able to add additional capacity.

Andy Summers, North Highland's Senior Ranger for High Life Highland, is a dedicated naturalist with a deep understanding of the region's diverse ecosystems. His extensive experience in wildlife conservation and passion for preserving North Highland's pristine landscapes make him a vital asset. Andy's work encompasses wildlife observation, environmental education, and passing on a greater appreciation for the area's unique flora and fauna. His commitment to conserving North Highland's natural heritage is evident in his expertise and unwavering dedication.