Stumbled upon this weird, bumpy green ball under the trees. It looks like a brain and is sticky to touch. What is it?

6. What Wildlife Actually Does With Osage Orange Fruits
While humans may not find Osage oranges appetizing, certain wildlife species make use of these fruits. Squirrels and other rodents have been known to gnaw through the tough exterior to access the seeds inside, which are a rich source of nutrients.
Interestingly, the Osage orange fruit was likely consumed by large megafauna such as mammoths and giant sloths in prehistoric times. These animals would have been capable of breaking open the hard fruits and dispersing the seeds across the landscape, aiding in the tree’s propagation.
7. The Tree Behind the Fruit: Where Osage Orange Grows
The Osage orange tree is native to the south-central United States, particularly in regions of Texas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas. It thrives in a variety of soil types and is remarkably adaptable, often found in fields, pastures, and along fence lines.
Due to its hardy nature, the tree has been widely planted outside its native range and can now be found across the eastern and central United States. The tree’s resilience, combined with its dense, thorny branches, has made it a popular choice for creating natural hedges and windbreaks.
8. Old-School Uses: Living Fences, Wood, and Folk Remedies
Historically, the Osage orange tree was highly valued for its wood, which is exceptionally strong and rot-resistant. Native American tribes, such as the Osage, utilized the wood to craft bows and other tools, thanks to its flexibility and durability.
In the 19th century, the tree was widely planted as a ‘living fence’ before the invention of barbed wire. The dense, thorny branches formed an effective barrier to livestock. Additionally, various folk remedies have been derived from the tree’s sap and wood, though these uses are largely anecdotal and not scientifically validated.
9. Do Osage Oranges Really Repel Spiders and Pests?
A common myth surrounding Osage oranges is their supposed ability to repel spiders and other pests. Many people place the fruits around their homes as a natural insect deterrent.
However, scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited. While the fruit contains compounds that can be mildly repellant, their effectiveness is not well-documented. Most experts agree that any pest-repelling properties are likely minimal.