Today in Nature: The Picture that may save your life

October 2nd: This picture may save your life some day. These fungi grow on Birch trees, and are known all over the world as 'tinder' fungus. The flesh inside these hoof-shaped fungi can be used to light a fire, and carry it for long distances because it burns so slowly. Also, if you boil it in urine for a few days ( who figures this stuff out?), it becomes an excellent material for starting fires since it is very flammable. Otzi, the 5000 year old Ice Man who was found in the Alps some years ago, was carrying chunks of this fungus, along with flints for creating sparks. So if you're ever lost in the woods, and need to keep a fire going, look for this stuff.