The unregulated picking of wild mushrooms poses serious risks, prompting the Forestry Department to issue a warning to the public, urging them to be especially careful both when walking in the woods and when selecting the mushrooms they pick.
Speaking on the Alpha News program, the Forestry Department’s Press Spokesperson, Glafkos Kyriakou, emphasized that wild mushrooms cannot be identified based on photographs, Facebook posts, smell, or other superficial characteristics. As he explained, there are dozens of species that look alike, with some being extremely poisonous.
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“Mushroom poisoning can even lead to death,” he warned, noting that even people who are familiar with two common seasonal species, such as the white mushroom and the red mushroom, should not assume they can safely identify every mushroom they encounter.
Glafkos Kyriakou urged the public to consult experienced individuals for mushroom identification, noting that many visit forest stations or seek out forest rangers on patrol to ask for guidance.
Dangers Also Arise from Wandering in the Forest
He also advised particular caution for those venturing into the woods to gather mushrooms. As he noted, it is dangerous to venture alone into unfamiliar areas, following trails without knowing where they lead.
In fact, the department warned that due to recent rainfall, fallen leaves may be covering dangerous areas—including cliffs—making them difficult for visitors to spot.
The Forestry Department’s warning comes at a time of increased activity in the forests due to mushroom season, with authorities reminding the public that venturing into nature requires knowledge, preparation, and extra caution.
