Treeless hilltops in the bergland are often home to families and clans of Winders, a unique species which appear to be a giant, sturdy, and quickly-reproducing species of fungus.
This photo captures all four members of the Zwillingbäume Winder family. The juveniles are hiding behind the trees while Mama, on the left, spins proudly on the soft crest of the hotchmoor. Notice that the youngest is closest to parent, the pubescent teen is farthest, and the middle kid – as always, in the middle. The juvenile Winder has one stripe, a second stripe appears on the yearlings; the teen sports three stripes – the ultimate in Winder flamboyance, key to the subtle mating dance and song. As in many species, upon reaching adulthood, the Winder loses its color, except in certain subspecies which maintain a stripe around the base. Winders communicate with the sound of the wind, and their flashing red lights; the weather is their favorite topic of conversation.