I believe it's actually a Deodar cedar:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cedrus_deodara

I believe they're from a variety of fir tree…google lens agrees but it can be wrong

Maybe I shouldn't have messed with them. But I can't really reattach them to the tree now, can I?

Yeah, I'm going with the alien egg theory here!
"Your emotional state is not my responsibility." – Warren Smith

The cones? Sure: they are essentially seed pods that serve to propagate the tree. The cones that hit the ground also eventually decompose and create mulch in the soil around the tree, which not only feeds the tree itself but feeds other plants.

Do they serve any purpose in the eco system?
Tell you what…When I send my ex-wife her money…you can lick the stamps.

NO!! One bite and you'd die instantly! Plus your teeth would be permanently stuck together what with all that pitch.

Are they edible?
My password is password.

Oh, okay… also possibly Deodar cedar? Or is that the same? Anyway, when I googled it, I got images of Deodar cedars and their cones that look just like the one on my property line. Alien eggs is right!

It's a Deodar pine and those cones look like Alien eggs!

They do look unreal, don't they? lol It's NOT the image that comes to mind when I think if a pine cone. And yes, they are sticky with dripping pitch… I have to grab them with a paper towel so I don't gunk up hands or gloves (pitch is a bitch to clean off, trust me).

They look totally fake! I've never seen anything like those before, and especially that colour. They look like they've developed a nice patina lol
Good idea about the pitch. My mower was down and out for a bit.
"Your emotional state is not my responsibility." – Warren Smith