I came across this strange growth -- it's not dog poop
Do you have any idea what it might be? I've uploaded 2 images (attached files).
Answer
There is a fungus known as "dog turd" fungus, more formally called Pisolithus tinctorius. Other common names include "dead man's fist" and "dyemakers puffball" (many species of puffballs have been used to make dyes).
See Tom Volk's article on Pisolithus tinctorius
That said, to me, your photo looks more like "dead man's fingers" or Xylaria polymorpha,
This is a common fungus seen in summer and fall, solitary or clustered on wood or stumps at soil level persisting for months.
See Tom Volk's article on Xylaria polymorpha.
We have many books in our library on the fascinating world of fungi and mushrooms and you are welcome to stop by the library to read them. I highly recommend Merlin Sheldrake's Entangled life : how fungi make our worlds, change our minds & shape our futures. 2020
Thank you for your interesting question.
