Dead trees attract wildlife

Dead or dying trees are of great value to wildlife. Hundreds of different animals depend on standing dead trees, hollow trees, stumps and logs. They need them for food, to make dens, for shelter, to nest inside and to roost. When a tree dies, mushrooms and insects usually start the process of decomposition. They slowing break down and soften the tree, permitting other animals, like woodpeckers, to create holes in them.
Many birds and small mammals, in turn, depend on old woodpecker holes to nest in. When the bark starts to peel from the trunk, insects, amphibians and reptiles use spaces under the bark and the small holes to find food, lay eggs or as shelter.
When the tree falls to the ground, other animals start to use it and eventually it will decompose and become soil, starting another cycle…



Dead trees in your backyard

• Only dead trees that pose a danger to property or to people should be removed.


• Dead trees can be trimmed or used as the center of a landscape design. They will be used as a habitat for wildlife. They are beautiful and change every year.


• If you don’t have a dead tree, keep your eyes open for someone who is removing one. “Plant it” in your yard amongst some trees or flowers! To plant a dead tree, simply dig a hole deep enough to support the base of the snag and firmly compact the soil around the base. Dead trees make great winter feeders for birds like woodpeckers, nuthatches and chickadees.


• Create a small pile of logs or branches. Small animals such as rabbits and birds will use it as shelter.


• Ponds, logs and branches make perfect resting areas for butterflies and many other insects. Frogs, toads, salamanders and a host of other pond visitors also use logs and sticks to sit on, look for food and to attach their eggs to.


• Layer large pieces of bark on the ground. Many tiny backyard visitors like toads will use it to keep out of the hot sun and hide from predators. A shady corner of a backyard is a perfect place to start.