Decaying or dead trees are wildlife wonderlands. Known as snags, they are used by insects, birds, mammals, and amphibians as sites for perching, resting, roosting, feeding, grooming, hibernating, courting, and laying eggs. A tree can take decades or even centuries to grow, die, and decay. At each stage, it provides important habitat for wildlife.
Procedure
- If there is a snag on your property, instead of cutting it up for firewood let it stand for wildlife.
- Note that American elm trees infected with Dutch elm disease should not be left standing, as they could infect healthy elms.
Maintenance
Relax! Let nature do the work.