Another unidentified fungus (1 Viewer)

[Surreybirder]

I found several examples of a black fungus lying around in some local woodland (mostly birch and oak). I am not at all sure that the black colour is natural - could they simply be dead toadstools? I couldn't see any that were growing in an upright position - almost as if an animal had come along and nipped them all off at the base. Anyway, I thought I'd see whether anyone can cast some light on their identity. I took the photo with my phone so it won't win any prizes

 

[mark clements]

russula nigricans, possibly. They start white, turn brown and finish black (ish)
I am not an expert, but came across one year's ago, in the New Forest from memory, but I may be wrong.

Harry

 

[Surreybirder]

Thanks, Harry, That looks a good call. Apparently it's edible but I wouldn't want to risk it.
Ken