Poland sees surge in green woodpecker numbers and peak mushroom foraging season

Recent monitoring shows the green woodpecker (Picus viridis) is becoming increasingly common in Polish cities and older woodlands, benefitting from the preservation of mature trees such as poplars and willows. The 2026 mushroom season has already brought abundant harvests of chanterelles, boletes, and other edible fungi across many regions, with a live map highlighting hotspots in Greater Poland, West Pomerania, Pomerania, Lublin and Łódź provinces. Experts note that the presence of particular weed species can reveal soil conditions: nitrogen‑rich soils favor nettles and common comfrey, while sandier, acidic grounds host field mustard and sow thistles. Among the prized mushrooms, the superb Russula vesca – known for its pinkish cap and mild flavor – is widely reported and described, with guidance on identification and safe collection. The characteristic forest scent of mushrooms stems from volatile compounds such as 1‑octen‑3‑ol together with dozens of aldehydes, ketones and terpenes, varying by species and maturity.