Bird's Nest Fungus in Mulch: Harmless and Cool

A homeowner finds cup-shaped structures with "eggs" in mulch, worried about mold/fungi.

Identification

It's Bird's Nest Fungus (family Nidulariaceae). The "cups" are peridia; the "eggs" are peridioles containing spores. They decompose wood into organic matter.

No Action Needed

• Harmless to plants, pets, people.
• Common on mulch in shady, moist areas.
• If unsightly, rake or remove mulch—but they're beneficial decomposers.

Reference: Arkansas Extension Fact Sheet on Nuisance Fungi.