Epping Forest fungi pickers warned by City Corporation

The City of London Corporation has issued a warning to social media influencers and visitors to leave wild mushrooms untouched in Epping Forest. The 8,000-acre woodland, managed by the Corporation, is experiencing a rise in fungi-related content online, prompting concerns about increased mushroom picking.

Harvesting fungi is banned under the forest's bylaws. The Corporation is appealing to the public to help safeguard the forest's diverse fungal population, which is crucial for the woodland's ecosystem. While photography is welcomed, the collection of any mushrooms is strongly discouraged.

Conservation concerns

Caroline Haines, chair of the City Corporation's Epping Forest and Commons Committee, stated that Epping Forest is a significant habitat for hundreds of fungal species, many of which require undisturbed conditions. She noted that influencers and visitors may be unaware of the picking ban but that posts showing collection can encourage others to do the same. 'Our message is simple: click, don't pick,' Ms Haines said.

The City Corporation cautioned that individuals caught picking mushrooms could face fines or prosecution, even after leaving the forest. The surge in fungi content on social media platforms continues to attract large audiences, with posts showcasing unusual mushrooms and foraging discoveries.

Ecological importance and discoveries

Epping Forest, which spans the border between Greater London and Essex, is a nationally recognised area for its fungal diversity. These species play a vital role in nutrient recycling, supporting local wildlife, and protecting approximately 55,000 ancient trees within the forest.

Forest specialists are monitoring this year's fungi season, which has seen early emergence of some species, such as 'Chicken of the Woods' (Laetiporus sulphureus), due to recent warm weather. The City Corporation highlighted recent notable discoveries within its open spaces, including a species new to science, Hydropus inopinatus, found in Burnham Beeches in 2024, and the UK's first confirmed record of the rare fungus Russula blumiana in Epping Forest in 2025.

What happens next

The City of London Corporation will continue to monitor activity in Epping Forest and enforce its bylaws regarding fungi collection. Visitors are reminded that picking mushrooms is prohibited and may result in penalties.