Epping Forest fungi influencers warned over mushroom picking as social media craze grows

The City of London Corporation, which manages the 8,000-acre green space on the outskirts of the capital, warned the public that picking fungi is banned under the forest’s bylaws

Emma O’Neill Content Editor and Rebecca Speare-Cole Press Association Sustainability Reporter

18:18, 27 Aug 2026

Social media influencers, foragers and visitors are being urged to leave wild mushrooms untouched in Epping Forest, following a surge in fungi-related content across social media platforms.

The City of London Corporation, which oversees the 8,000-acre green space on the outskirts of the capital, has reminded the public that harvesting fungi is prohibited under the forest’s bylaws.

As conservationists gear up for the onset of the autumn fungi season, the charity noted that recent warm weather has already triggered the early emergence of certain species, including Laetiporus sulphureus, commonly known as “Chicken of the Woods”.

The organisation is appealing to visitors to help safeguard the forest’s fungi, welcoming photography but firmly discouraging the collection of any mushrooms.

Caroline Haines, chair of the City Corporation’s Epping Forest and Commons Committee, said: “Epping Forest is one of the country’s most important habitats for fungi, and many species depend on being left undisturbed.

“We know people are fascinated by mushrooms and want to share their discoveries online.

“Many influencers and visitors may not realise that picking fungi is not permitted in the forest, but posts showing mushrooms being collected can encourage others to follow suit.

“We want everyone to enjoy the forest and experience its remarkable wildlife. Our message is simple: click, don’t pick.”

The City of London Corporation cautioned that those caught picking mushrooms could face fines or prosecution, even after departing the forest. The surge in fungi-related content on social media shows no signs of slowing down, with posts featuring unusual mushrooms and foraging discoveries continuing to draw sizeable audiences.

Spanning the border between Greater London and Essex, Epping Forest is home to hundreds of species and is a protected area nationally renowned for its remarkable fungal diversity.

Many of these species play a crucial role in maintaining the forest’s wellbeing, aiding in nutrient recycling, supporting local wildlife, and safeguarding approximately 55,000 ancient trees.

Forest specialists are keeping a close eye on how this year’s season unfolds, following a summer marked by intense heat and drought conditions.

The City Corporation noted that its open spaces have been the site of several notable fungi discoveries in recent years.

In 2024, a species of mushroom new to science, Hydropus inopinatus, was uncovered in Burnham Beeches, Buckinghamshire, while in 2025, Epping Forest became the location of the UK’s first confirmed record of the rare fungus species, Russula blumiana.