The use of wood from African dry forests and woodlands is as old as human history. Ancient civilizations used timber in construction and in carving household utensils and weapons. Cultural artifacts were also created using wood, for example, mythological gods with human faces but animal bodies. Wood constitutes a significant proportion of the products used in traditional buildings. It is used as poles, as components of the wall and in the roof. Construction wood is also used in animal enclosures, granaries and a variety of other structures. Household utensils, such as pestles used to grind grain foods, and various handles for utensils are also made from wood.