Poisonous Mushrooms on the Rise Due to Prolonged Rainfall

There was a segment on a morning show today, about the significant increase in the number of white poisonous mushrooms in parks and gardens around Japan. Particularly, in Osaka and Tokyo. Reportedly, they are appearing in unusually large numbers because of the persistent rainy weather.

Following this year's unusually long periods of rain, poisonous mushrooms known as ooshiro karakasatake (false parasol mushrooms) have been appearing in large numbers across parks, riverbanks, and grassy areas in and around Tokyo and Osaka. Experts believe the combination of warm temperatures and abundant rainfall has created ideal growing conditions.

The Governor of Osaka, as well as municipality and park authorities have been warning residents not to touch, pick or eat unfamiliar mushrooms. Authorities have also asked people to notify park staff or local authorities when large clusters are discovered so the mushrooms can be monitored and removed where necessary.

Are you seeing more wild mushrooms than normal in your area of Japan?