Live Tree or Dead Tree?

Here is a tricky question? Which has more value a live tree or a dead one? The answer might surprise you. Sure, the shape, the fall color, and cool breezes under a sprawling maple suggest the live one. But not for wildlife.

The more I read about how wildlife use these tree hollows, I disagree with "clearing out a forest" with a prescribed burn or simply cleaning out a patch of forest that may be on your property. Dead trees are called "snags." There are two kinds of snags, hard and soft. The hard snags are the maples and oaks. Since the trees are sturdy and not apt to decay, these make great dens for raccoons, fishers, weasels and black bear. The soft snags are the hollow branches of an evergreen which will decay. But the good news is that the decay draws insects for the birds.

So, the next time you decide not to clean up those fallen logs or dead trees in your forest patch, remember, a dead tree is more valuable than a living tree!