There are a number of kinds of Bird's Nest Fungi in Northern California. This species has striations (lines or grooves), a fluted shape, and is very hairy on the outside of the flute. The periodoles (the "eggs" in the cup) contain the fungus' spores. The cups are configured in such a way that the force of raindrops falling into the 'nest' propels the periodoles out of the nest to disperse them.