Fluted Bird's Nest - Cyathus striatus

The colour of this fungus may vary from orange-brown to dull grey.  At the base of the conical structure known as a peridium, the 'eggs' are lens-shaped structures known as peridioles, and the inner surface of the walls of each peridium are lined with basidia upon which the spores develop. What makes Cyathus striatus immediately recognisable are the flutes, or striations, on the inside surfaces of its conical cups. Also distinctive is the hairy exterior of the peridium. Typical peridia are about 1cm wide at the top of the 'nest' and up to 1.5cm tall. Something that can help you spot these gregarious little fungi are the lids, known as epiphragms, that cover young fruitbodies and prevent rain entering until the eggs (peridioles) are ripe; the epiphragms are white, initially covered with brown hairs that later fall off.

Cyathus stercoreus is very similar (its rim is not so widely flared, however) but its peridioles are much smaller; it is a dung-loving species.

Unless identified by a recognised expert, a photo is required. If the photo doesn't show the key ID features, then in the comments box describe the size and identifying characters you have observed. Please state the type of habitat where the fungus was found.

This saprobic fungus is most often found in clusters on dead wood - particularly softwood - in open forests and on woodland edges, but Cyathus striatus also grows on wood chip that has been used as a mulch in parks and gardens. It likes well-rotted damp timber. 

The fruitbodies can be seen from early summer through to the onset of winter. (May to November sometimes persisting into the new year).

Probably fairly common and widespread throughout Britain and Ireland but rarely reported because they are so small and inconspicuous.

Status in Leicestershire and Rutland not known.