Synanthropic nesting behavior of the Eastern Phoebe

So how come after 7 years of researching urban wildlife, it wasn't until this week that I learned the word "Synanthropy?" Perhaps one of my scientist friends can enlighten me: Is it one of those science words that has gone out of vogue, like "symbiosis," or is it only used by Brazilian mosquito researchers? Anyway, this phoebe (or several generations of phoebe) nests in a pedestrian tunnel at my work, on a light fixture, every year:



( two more )

365 Urban Species. #133: Shaggy Mane

Shaggy mane in grass, between park path and highway, in Boston, by cottonmanifesto

Urban species #133: Shaggy mane Coprinus comatus

The fungus that produces shaggy mane mushrooms has an affinity for manicured lawns, hard packed soil along paths, and roadsides. A fresh batch of this almost cylindrical fruiting body gives the impression of a group of white candles carelessly left on the grass.

Like other Coprinus mushrooms, the cap deliquesces as it releases its payload of spores. Because the shaggy mane cap is so tall, it makes a particularly impressive display of turning to goo as it realizes its purpose. Many mushroom hunters hope to discover the shaggy mane before this stage, when it is a prized item for the table.


Shaggy manes between driveway and road, in Lincoln Massachusetts, by urbpan