Morels are the most commonly harvested wild edible macrofungi in eastern North America. The fruiting season for morels occurs in the spring, generally between mid-April and early May in NCR parks. During this period, "morel hunters" search for their fruiting bodies in forested areas where they are likely to occur. Some types of forests, including those with Tulip Tree present, are regarded as especially favorable for morels. Although edible, one should always fry or cook morels before they are consumed.