bird's nest fungus

plural bird's nest fungi · alternative bird's-nest fungus

1. Any of the fungi of the family Nidulariaceae, or of the former order Nidulariales.

   The Bird's nest fungi are related to puffballs.

   2003, William C. Roody, Mushrooms of West Virginia and the Central Appalachians, page 457

   3 more examples

   The bird's-nest fungus resembles a miniature bird's nest complete with “eggs.” The eggs (periodioles) are actually spore packages, which rupture to release the reproductive cells.

   2008, Donald W. Linzey, A Natural History Guide to Great Smoky Mountains National Park, page 78

   The egg dispersal mechanics of the bird's nest fungus are as amazing as its appearance.

   2010, Bill Russell, Field Guide to Wild Mushrooms of Pennsylvania and the Mid-Atlantic, page 107

   Bird's nest fungi are funky and fascinating; they look for all the world like tiny bird nests.

   2010, Michael Kuo, Andy Methven, 32: Cyathus striatus (Hudson) Willdenow: 100 Cool Mushrooms, page 65