Using tools to forage for mushrooms forbidden, says Forestry department

As Cyprus enters its mushroom picking season, the forestry department is calling on the public not to use rakes as this violates the law surrounding foraging. It can be sentenced with up to a year in prison, a fine of up to €5,000 or both.

Foraging should be done with careful observation by collectors who can differentiate between edible species and poisonous ones, the department added.

During collection, the foliage above the mushroom must be removed carefully removed by hand. Alternatively, the mushroom can be cut with a knife just above the ground.

Most importantly, foraging should be done with care and respect for nature. Care must be made so as not to destroy the productive fungus that finds protection under the foliage.

Only mature mushrooms that have released a large number of spores should be collected, so as to ensure their reproduction in the future.