Identifying and Managing Stinkhorn Mushrooms in Mulch

Question: Strange mushrooms in mulch: white asparagus-like with black cap and "big eye." Live one day, fall over, turn yellow. Not smelly. What are they? How to prevent? Poisonous to pets?

Identification

White form of dog stinkhorn (Mutinus caninus albus).

Management

Pets avoid them due to intense smell. Most fungus is underground root-like. When mushrooms appear, knock them over to prevent spore maturation. Fungicide treatments half a dozen times a year may control, but they're harmless—don't worry.