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Create a Wildlife Tree

When faced with the prospect of a large tree removal, why not consider making it a wildlife tree? A wildlife tree (or snag, as it is sometimes called) is simply a standing dead tree retained for habitat. In areas of human activity, these trees are reduced in size so they do not pose a risk as they decay. We are so conditioned to manicure and highly manage landscapes that we sometimes overlook the importance of dead wood in a functioning forest ecosystem. In fact, for some forest wildlife, wood only becomes valuable after death. 

A skilled and talented arborist shaped this standing dead tree
into a stunning sculpture.

Dead wood provides more to wildlife than just sculpted homes for owls and chickadees. Crevices formed between the trunk of a dead tree and the peeling bark provide protection from the sun for bats and amphibians. Branches free of leaves serve as perches for birds of prey to view movements of small animals below. Decaying wood is home to fungi, slugs, snails, and millipedes which need to stay busy, pulling trees apart. They in turn are food for birds, mammals, amphibians, and reptiles. In addition, dead wood stores carbon which is sustainable in the era of climate change.

Every so often, it's nice to see a woodpecker peeking out of its tree hole, or a soft pad of moss on a dying tree, turning gold in the rain.  

Progressive cities understand the value of wildlife trees. Shoppers stop to have their picture taken by a wildlife tree created in downtown Kent Connecticut.

Decorative vines can be grown on wildlife trees for more habitat and color.