{"id":41950,"date":"2026-02-28T00:04:36","date_gmt":"2026-02-28T00:04:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/?p=41950"},"modified":"2026-02-28T00:04:36","modified_gmt":"2026-02-28T00:04:36","slug":"found-a-hard-foam-like-brown-clump-on-your-fence-heres-what-it-could-be","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/?p=41950","title":{"rendered":"Found a Hard, Foam-Like Brown Clump on Your Fence? Here\u2019s What It Could Be"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019ve recently noticed a strange, hard, foam-like brown lump attached to a fence post, branch, or garden structure, your first instinct might be to scrape it off or wonder if it\u2019s harmful. At first glance, it might look like an odd growth, a clump of dirt, or even some sort of fungus. But before you remove it, take a closer look \u2014 this peculiar mass is often a sign that your backyard ecosystem is thriving in ways you may not have realized.<\/p><div class=\"clsoo69decfd1e70ad\" ><div style=\"width:100%; max-width:1200px; margin:0 auto;\">\n  <a href=\"https:\/\/bolt-casino.com?r=0BFDBF1283\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\n    <img \n      src=\"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/f8693ebb-2018-480f-a2f7-0096810c07f0.jpg\" \n      alt=\"200% Deposit Bonus + 10% Cashback\" \n      style=\"width:100%; height:auto; display:block; border-radius:8px; cursor:pointer;\"\n    \/>\n  <\/a>\n<\/div><\/div><style type=\"text\/css\">\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 1201px) {\r\n.clsoo69decfd1e70ad {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 993px) and (max-width: 1200px) {\r\n.clsoo69decfd1e70ad {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 769px) and (max-width: 992px) {\r\n.clsoo69decfd1e70ad {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (min-width: 768px) and (max-width: 768px) {\r\n.clsoo69decfd1e70ad {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n@media screen and (max-width: 767px) {\r\n.clsoo69decfd1e70ad {\r\ndisplay: block;\r\n}\r\n}\r\n<\/style>\r\n\n<h2 data-start=\"651\" data-end=\"687\">What That Brown Clump Really Is<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"689\" data-end=\"1205\">In many cases, this mysterious structure is actually a praying mantis egg case, scientifically called an\u00a0<strong data-start=\"794\" data-end=\"805\">ootheca<\/strong>. After mating in late summer or early fall, female mantises produce a frothy substance that hardens into a protective shell. Inside, dozens \u2014 sometimes hundreds \u2014 of tiny eggs develop through the winter months. The ootheca is tan to light brown, roughly one to two inches long, and has a slightly spongy, ridged texture that helps it blend in with twigs, fence posts, and other natural structures.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1207\" data-end=\"1530\">This casing is remarkably durable, designed to withstand cold temperatures, rain, and predators. It ensures that the next generation of mantises emerges safely when the weather warms in spring. Although it may appear small and unassuming, the ootheca is a remarkable example of nature\u2019s engineering and survival strategy.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"1532\" data-end=\"1582\">Why Praying Mantises Are Good for Your Garden<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1584\" data-end=\"1870\">Once the eggs hatch in spring, tiny mantises emerge ready to hunt. They are natural predators, feeding on insects like aphids, flies, caterpillars, and other common garden pests. This makes them valuable allies for gardeners, especially those seeking to reduce chemical pesticide use.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1872\" data-end=\"2218\">The presence of an ootheca in your yard often indicates a healthy, balanced ecosystem. It shows that predatory insects are thriving, which usually corresponds to a diverse garden with ample food sources and shelter. In other words, that mysterious brown clump is a small but meaningful sign that your outdoor space supports beneficial wildlife.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"2220\" data-end=\"2249\">How to Handle an Ootheca<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2251\" data-end=\"2472\">If you find a mantis egg case attached to a branch or post, it\u2019s generally best to\u00a0<strong data-start=\"2334\" data-end=\"2358\">leave it undisturbed<\/strong>. Oothecae are harmless to humans and pets, and disturbing them can prevent the eggs from hatching successfully.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"2474\" data-end=\"2621\">If the egg case is in a high-traffic area or somewhere that could be damaged, it can be\u00a0<strong data-start=\"2562\" data-end=\"2585\">carefully relocated<\/strong>. The safest way to do this is to:<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"2622\" data-end=\"2900\">\n<li data-start=\"2622\" data-end=\"2677\">\n<p data-start=\"2625\" data-end=\"2677\">Trim the small branch or surface it\u2019s attached to.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2678\" data-end=\"2791\">\n<p data-start=\"2681\" data-end=\"2791\">Move it to a protected spot in your yard, ideally somewhere with shrubs or garden plants that offer shelter.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2792\" data-end=\"2900\">\n<p data-start=\"2795\" data-end=\"2900\">Secure it upright, mimicking its original orientation, so the eggs can develop properly through winter.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p data-start=\"2902\" data-end=\"3027\">With a little care, you can help the next generation of mantises survive and continue contributing to your garden\u2019s health.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3029\" data-end=\"3056\">Identifying an Ootheca<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3058\" data-end=\"3160\">While they can vary slightly in appearance, most mantis egg cases share some common characteristics:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"3161\" data-end=\"3473\">\n<li data-start=\"3161\" data-end=\"3213\">\n<p data-start=\"3163\" data-end=\"3213\"><strong data-start=\"3163\" data-end=\"3172\">Color<\/strong>: Typically tan, light brown, or beige.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3214\" data-end=\"3283\">\n<p data-start=\"3216\" data-end=\"3283\"><strong data-start=\"3216\" data-end=\"3225\">Shape<\/strong>: Oval or elongated, roughly the size of a small walnut.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3284\" data-end=\"3362\">\n<p data-start=\"3286\" data-end=\"3362\"><strong data-start=\"3286\" data-end=\"3297\">Texture<\/strong>: Ridged and slightly spongy, sometimes described as foam-like.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3363\" data-end=\"3473\">\n<p data-start=\"3365\" data-end=\"3473\"><strong data-start=\"3365\" data-end=\"3377\">Location<\/strong>: Often found on branches, fence posts, or garden stakes where they can be somewhat concealed.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"3475\" data-end=\"3668\">Some people confuse oothecae with insect nests or fungal growths, but careful observation usually reveals their distinctive foam-like, ridged texture and their secure attachment to a surface.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3670\" data-end=\"3710\">Fun Facts About Praying Mantis Eggs<\/h2>\n<ul data-start=\"3712\" data-end=\"4121\">\n<li data-start=\"3712\" data-end=\"3790\">\n<p data-start=\"3714\" data-end=\"3790\">A single ootheca can contain\u00a0<strong data-start=\"3743\" data-end=\"3761\">50 to 400 eggs<\/strong>, depending on the species.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3791\" data-end=\"3889\">\n<p data-start=\"3793\" data-end=\"3889\">The eggs are typically dormant through winter, only hatching when temperatures rise in spring.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3890\" data-end=\"3997\">\n<p data-start=\"3892\" data-end=\"3997\">Mantises are\u00a0<strong data-start=\"3905\" data-end=\"3935\">cannibalistic in adulthood<\/strong>, but the eggs develop safely inside the protective ootheca.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"3998\" data-end=\"4121\">\n<p data-start=\"4000\" data-end=\"4121\">Different species produce slightly different egg case shapes, but all share the protective frothy shell characteristic.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 data-start=\"4123\" data-end=\"4158\">Encouraging Beneficial Insects<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4160\" data-end=\"4539\">Spotting a mantis ootheca can inspire gardeners to create habitats that support beneficial insects. Consider leaving shrubs, tall grasses, or other cover where egg cases can be safely attached. By providing shelter and reducing pesticide use, you help maintain a balanced garden ecosystem, attracting not only mantises but also ladybugs, lacewings, and other helpful predators.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"4541\" data-end=\"4563\">When Not to Worry<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4565\" data-end=\"4887\">It\u2019s normal to feel uneasy when encountering something unfamiliar in your yard. However, mantis egg cases are\u00a0<strong data-start=\"4675\" data-end=\"4698\">completely harmless<\/strong>\u00a0to humans, pets, and plants. Unlike wasp nests or fungus, there\u2019s no need for chemical removal or treatment. Simply observing, appreciating, and gently relocating if necessary is enough.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"4889\" data-end=\"4904\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4906\" data-end=\"5392\">What may initially appear as a hard, odd, brown clump on a fence post is often a\u00a0<strong data-start=\"4987\" data-end=\"5014\">praying mantis egg case<\/strong>, a small but fascinating element of nature at work. It protects hundreds of future garden predators, supports a thriving ecosystem, and reminds us that even the smallest discoveries outdoors can have significant ecological importance. Next time you spot one, take a moment to admire it \u2014 it\u2019s a signal that your backyard is alive, balanced, and ready to flourish come spring.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"199\" data-end=\"252\">Different Species of Mantises and Their Oothecae<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"254\" data-end=\"473\">While many backyard gardeners are familiar with the common\u00a0<strong data-start=\"313\" data-end=\"351\">Chinese mantis (Tenodera sinensis)<\/strong>, there are actually several mantis species in North America, each producing slightly different egg cases. For instance:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"1044\">\n<li data-start=\"475\" data-end=\"663\">\n<p data-start=\"477\" data-end=\"663\"><strong data-start=\"477\" data-end=\"516\">Chinese Mantis (Tenodera sinensis):<\/strong>\u00a0Produces large, elongated oothecae, often 1.5\u20132 inches long, tan or light brown in color. These are the most commonly seen egg cases in gardens.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"664\" data-end=\"823\">\n<p data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"823\"><strong data-start=\"666\" data-end=\"710\">Carolina Mantis (Stagmomantis carolina):<\/strong>\u00a0Typically smaller, with egg cases around 1 inch long. They often attach to stems or twigs close to the ground.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"824\" data-end=\"1044\">\n<p data-start=\"826\" data-end=\"1044\"><strong data-start=\"826\" data-end=\"865\">European Mantis (Mantis religiosa):<\/strong>\u00a0Produces oothecae similar in size to the Chinese mantis but with a smoother texture. These are less common in most U.S. gardens but are occasionally spotted in northern states.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"1046\" data-end=\"1304\">Understanding the species can help gardeners anticipate when and where the eggs will hatch. For example, oothecae of the Chinese mantis may overwinter in areas that experience frost, whereas Carolina mantis eggs are slightly more sensitive to extreme cold.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"1306\" data-end=\"1343\">Seasonal Life Cycle and Hatching<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"1345\" data-end=\"1612\">The mantis life cycle is closely tied to seasonal temperature changes. After the female lays her eggs in late summer or early fall, the ootheca hardens to protect them through winter. During this time, the eggs remain dormant, impervious to frost and moderate snow.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"1614\" data-end=\"1962\">As spring arrives and temperatures rise, the eggs begin to hatch. This usually occurs when daytime temperatures consistently reach\u00a0<strong data-start=\"1745\" data-end=\"1766\">65\u201375\u00b0F (18\u201324\u00b0C)<\/strong>. Depending on the species, dozens to hundreds of tiny mantises emerge at once, often within the same week. These juveniles, known as\u00a0<strong data-start=\"1900\" data-end=\"1910\">nymphs<\/strong>, are fully equipped to start hunting immediately.<\/p>\n<div class=\"google-auto-placed ap_container\">\n<p data-start=\"1964\" data-end=\"2262\">The nymph stage is critical: mantises are tiny and vulnerable, so a well-placed ootheca \u2014 protected from predators and harsh conditions \u2014 can significantly improve survival rates. By spring, these emerging predators help control populations of aphids, caterpillars, flies, and other garden pests.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"2264\" data-end=\"2304\">How to Protect Oothecae Over Winter<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"2306\" data-end=\"2399\">Gardeners who wish to help mantises thrive can take a few precautions during winter months:<\/p>\n<ol data-start=\"2401\" data-end=\"3089\">\n<li data-start=\"2401\" data-end=\"2565\">\n<p data-start=\"2404\" data-end=\"2565\"><strong data-start=\"2404\" data-end=\"2435\">Leave Oothecae Undisturbed:<\/strong>\u00a0The safest approach is to allow the egg case to remain in place where it was laid. Moving it unnecessarily can damage the eggs.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2566\" data-end=\"2772\">\n<p data-start=\"2569\" data-end=\"2772\"><strong data-start=\"2569\" data-end=\"2589\">Provide Shelter:<\/strong>\u00a0If an ootheca is in a highly exposed location, consider relocating it to a sheltered spot that still receives some sunlight. Shady, overly damp locations may encourage mold growth.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2773\" data-end=\"2938\">\n<p data-start=\"2776\" data-end=\"2938\"><strong data-start=\"2776\" data-end=\"2802\">Avoid Chemical Sprays:<\/strong>\u00a0Pesticides and fungicides can destroy eggs. Minimize chemical use near oothecae to ensure the next generation can hatch successfully.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"2939\" data-end=\"3089\">\n<p data-start=\"2942\" data-end=\"3089\"><strong data-start=\"2942\" data-end=\"2971\">Secure Delicate Branches:<\/strong>\u00a0If a small twig is the attachment point, gently support it so that wind and heavy snow don\u2019t dislodge the egg case.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p data-start=\"3091\" data-end=\"3233\">Following these steps helps maintain healthy populations of beneficial insects in your garden, reducing reliance on artificial pest control.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3235\" data-end=\"3290\">The Role of Mantises in Integrated Pest Management<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3292\" data-end=\"3567\">Praying mantises are often called\u00a0<strong data-start=\"3326\" data-end=\"3348\">\u201cgarden guardians\u201d<\/strong>\u00a0because they naturally regulate insect populations. They are a prime example of\u00a0<strong data-start=\"3429\" data-end=\"3465\">integrated pest management (IPM)<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 a sustainable approach to pest control that emphasizes natural predators over chemical solutions.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"3569\" data-end=\"3917\">By encouraging mantises, gardeners can reduce infestations of common pests without harming plants or beneficial insects. Mantises are generalist predators, meaning they consume a wide range of insects, which helps maintain balance in the garden ecosystem. Unlike chemical pesticides, mantises do not leave harmful residues or disrupt soil health.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"3919\" data-end=\"3960\">Observing and Learning from Oothecae<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"3962\" data-end=\"4207\">Finding an ootheca offers a unique opportunity for education and observation. Families with children can use the egg cases to teach lessons about insect life cycles, biology, and the interconnectedness of ecosystems. Simple activities include:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4209\" data-end=\"4596\">\n<li data-start=\"4209\" data-end=\"4347\">\n<p data-start=\"4211\" data-end=\"4347\"><strong data-start=\"4211\" data-end=\"4242\">Sketching or Photographing:<\/strong>\u00a0Documenting oothecae before winter provides a record of where mantises are likely to emerge in spring.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4348\" data-end=\"4477\">\n<p data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4477\"><strong data-start=\"4350\" data-end=\"4373\">Timing Hatch Dates:<\/strong>\u00a0Observing the hatching process can teach children about temperature-dependent development in insects.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"4478\" data-end=\"4596\">\n<p data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4596\"><strong data-start=\"4480\" data-end=\"4500\">Garden Journals:<\/strong>\u00a0Recording which plants are near oothecae can reveal patterns about preferred mantis habitats.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"4598\" data-end=\"4774\">By engaging with nature in this hands-on way, people of all ages gain a better understanding of biodiversity and the importance of predatory insects in sustainable gardening.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"4776\" data-end=\"4806\">Common Misidentifications<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"4808\" data-end=\"4908\">While mantis egg cases are often distinctive, they can sometimes be mistaken for other structures:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"4910\" data-end=\"5436\">\n<li data-start=\"4910\" data-end=\"5083\">\n<p data-start=\"4912\" data-end=\"5083\"><strong data-start=\"4912\" data-end=\"4930\">Fungal Growth:<\/strong>\u00a0Some fungi, especially brown or tan shelf fungi, can resemble oothecae at a glance, but fungi are softer and often have spores visible on the surface.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5084\" data-end=\"5240\">\n<p data-start=\"5086\" data-end=\"5240\"><strong data-start=\"5086\" data-end=\"5109\">Other Insect Nests:<\/strong>\u00a0Certain wasps and leafhoppers build foam-like nests, but these are usually smaller, differently shaped, and located in clusters.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"5241\" data-end=\"5436\">\n<p data-start=\"5243\" data-end=\"5436\"><strong data-start=\"5243\" data-end=\"5268\">Debris or Sap Clumps:<\/strong>\u00a0Occasionally, hardened sap or compacted plant material may be confused with egg cases, but they are irregularly shaped and lack the ridged texture of a true ootheca.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"5438\" data-end=\"5562\">Proper identification ensures that gardeners leave beneficial oothecae undisturbed rather than removing them accidentally.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"5564\" data-end=\"5591\">The Ecological Message<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"5593\" data-end=\"5974\">Discovering a mantis egg case is a small but powerful reminder of the complexity and resilience of local ecosystems. Even in urban or suburban backyards, these insects play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. Their presence indicates that your garden provides food, shelter, and a relatively pesticide-free environment \u2014 all vital elements for a thriving ecosystem.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"5976\" data-end=\"6023\">Encouraging a Healthy Backyard Environment<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6025\" data-end=\"6098\">Gardeners can further support mantises and other beneficial insects by:<\/p>\n<ul data-start=\"6100\" data-end=\"6410\">\n<li data-start=\"6100\" data-end=\"6163\">\n<p data-start=\"6102\" data-end=\"6163\">Planting native shrubs and flowers to attract prey species.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6164\" data-end=\"6235\">\n<p data-start=\"6166\" data-end=\"6235\">Providing water sources, such as shallow dishes or small birdbaths.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6236\" data-end=\"6299\">\n<p data-start=\"6238\" data-end=\"6299\">Reducing chemical pesticide use to avoid harming predators.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"6300\" data-end=\"6410\">\n<p data-start=\"6302\" data-end=\"6410\">Creating vertical habitats with trellises, stakes, or garden structures where egg cases can attach safely.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p data-start=\"6412\" data-end=\"6530\">Even small changes can significantly improve survival rates for mantis populations, benefiting the garden long-term.<\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"6532\" data-end=\"6547\">Conclusion<\/h2>\n<p data-start=\"6549\" data-end=\"6910\">That hard, foam-like brown clump you may have noticed on a fence post, tree branch, or garden structure is likely a\u00a0<strong data-start=\"6665\" data-end=\"6692\">praying mantis egg case<\/strong>\u00a0\u2014 a fascinating and harmless sign that your backyard ecosystem is active and balanced. Inside each ootheca are dozens or hundreds of future garden predators ready to hatch in spring, helping control pests naturally.<\/p>\n<p data-start=\"6912\" data-end=\"7255\">By recognizing and protecting these egg cases, gardeners contribute to the health of their outdoor spaces, reduce reliance on chemicals, and gain an up-close connection with nature. The next time you spot one, pause and appreciate this tiny, hidden marvel \u2014 a small but extraordinary testament to life quietly unfolding in your own backyard.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>If you\u2019ve recently noticed a strange, hard, foam-like brown lump attached to a fence post, branch, or garden structure, your first instinct might be to scrape it off or wonder if it\u2019s harmful. At first glance, it might look like an odd growth, a clump of dirt, or even some sort of fungus. But before&#8230;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":41951,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_kad_post_transparent":"default","_kad_post_title":"default","_kad_post_layout":"default","_kad_post_sidebar_id":"","_kad_post_content_style":"default","_kad_post_vertical_padding":"default","_kad_post_feature":"","_kad_post_feature_position":"","_kad_post_header":false,"_kad_post_footer":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[19,17,11,20,24,15,12,25,22,18,16,21,14,23,13],"class_list":["post-41950","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-chronic-diseases","tag-fitness","tag-health-tips","tag-healthcare-technology","tag-healthy-lifestyle","tag-healthy-living","tag-medical-advice","tag-medical-awareness","tag-medical-research","tag-mental-health","tag-nutrition","tag-patient-care","tag-preventive-care","tag-public-health","tag-wellness"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.0 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Found a Hard, Foam-Like Brown Clump on Your Fence? Here\u2019s What It Could Be - VM News<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/news-vm.com\/?p=41950\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Found a Hard, Foam-Like Brown Clump on Your Fence? Here\u2019s What It Could Be - VM News\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"If you\u2019ve recently noticed a strange, hard, foam-like brown lump attached to a fence post, branch, or garden structure, your first instinct might be to scrape it off or wonder if it\u2019s harmful. At first glance, it might look like an odd growth, a clump of dirt, or even some sort of fungus. 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