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!

My Nature Page

It's true. There is a state forest next to my house. I do see some plants and animals that urbanites seldom enjoy . On the other hand, ask any city person who loves the natural world and he will tell you there is nature in the  city  that needs no forest, just a few minutes to notice it. Regardless of the turf, there is nature out there, just waiting for us.

The other day a coyote cub and raccoon must have crossed paths as the first played and jumped up the driveway, while the other lumbered down it. This morning a  couple frogs jumped pass the pool of water collecting in the wetlands, to take a swim in my granddaughter's wading pool. Nearby, the garter snakes were sunning on the boughs of the pine tree. It was a pretty normal morning on the edge of the forest.  Oh, and yesterday morning a fawn just losing its spots (it must have been about 4 months old) and sibling were gobbling greens for breakfast.

Share your nature sighting! Whether it is city or country, large or small, four-legged or eight, or no legs at all, it is  sure to get a,"Oh, my! I saw one of those...." Or even tell us where to go to see it.

Don't forget the wonderful colors of the season or the plants and trees that proudly show them off!

READ ALL ABOUT IT!

Take A City Nature Walk by Jane Kirkland (ages 9-12)