A Flock Of Bird's-Nests

Day 115: The Nidulariales are a fascinating family of tiny fungi which keen-eyed observers may find growing in many areas of Mount Rainier National Park. These were seen near Longmire. Like other fungi, they propagate by means of spores, but in the case of these Bird's-Nests, the spores are contained in capsules called peridioles. When the cups of the "nests" fill with rain, the peridioles float out to be deposited in new locations. Consequently, Bird's-Nest fungi are often seen in clusters, although this particular grouping is one of the most dense populations I have found. If you look closely at the photo, you can see free peridioles where they have come to rest on bare wood.