Look up in a healthy forest and you'll likely see a snag - a standing dead or dying tree - often missing the top or most of the large branches. Snags provide rich habitat for birds, mammals and insects that use nearly every part of these "dead" trees.
A healthy urban forest also includes snags. Portions of declining trees retained in residential yards provide critical wildlife habitat and a refuge for hundreds of creatures.
Wildlife trees create opportunities to observe birds and mammals that nest in hollow cavities. Snags attract insects which in turn become a feast for other wildlife, like the Pileated Woodpecker. Higher perches are unobstructed "lookouts" for raptors while the nooks and crannies may become hidden food storage for squirrels and other small mammals.
Certified Arborists at Tree133 help clients enhance their yards by creating snags rather than completely removing declining trees. Each tree must be carefully evaluated to make sure it is structurally sound and appropriate to retain. We use "coronet" cuts to imitate breakage that might happen in a storm. Some snags are very natural-looking while others are more artistic. Each snag is unique, benefiting native wildlife and attracting new visitors to your yard.
Contact Tree133 to learn about creating a wildlife snag on your property.
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