Velvet Shank (Winter Mushroom)

Flammulina velutipes

The image shows a cluster of fungi with distinct brown to orange-brown caps that appear somewhat velvety or sticky when wet. The gills underneath are pale and appear to be adnexed or adnate. The stems are not clearly visible but are often velvety and dark at the base, becoming lighter towards the cap. They are growing on what appears to be decaying wood or organic matter on the forest floor, surrounded by fallen leaves and pine needles.