Termitier

Termites in this region of Africa build very unique structures. Their homes are shaped like mushrooms, with stalks up to a foot high, and wide, overhanging caps. A whole field can be dotted with these mycological lodgings. After rain the caps moisten and darken, while the stalks remain dry, further perpetuating the mushroom metaphor.

The termite mushrooms (mound does not seem an appropriate term) are constructed from dirt, sand, and saliva. Most seem to be unoccupied. I guess termites are like people: their environmental changes outlast their own lifetimes. Locals say it is bad luck to destroy the structures, and the cows and sheep seem to eat around them, so they stand proud.