What Are White Powdery Mounds All Over Yard

Question From: Sheppard AFB, Texas, United States
Q: I have these white powdery mounds in my yard and they have a black powder inside of them. They are poping up all over my yard. Can you tell me what they are? I live in Wichita Falls Texas.
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A: It's a fungi-like organism that spreads by spores - a type of slime mold. It feeds on organic material. Do not spray it with a hose as that will spread the spores. Take a cheap spatula and scrape up the goop and seal in a plastic bag. There is no known pesticide that will kill it. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy