Why Dead Trees Are Sometimes Worth Keeping

Do you have any trees that are dead or dying on your property? Unless they are diseased and are a risk to your healthy trees, you don’t necessarily have to remove them. In fact, keeping your dead or dying trees can actually be beneficial to the environment.

Source: Flickr

Trees that are decaying or are standing dead trees can sometimes be just as valuable to the ecosystem as living trees. This is because they can still provide shelter to a number of wildlife, from small mammals and birds to reptiles and even bugs. In fact, many insects will lay their eggs beneath the bark of a dead or dying tree so that their larvae can consume the soft wood. These insects, in turn, help to attract birds, such as woodpeckers.

Because the wood of a dead or decaying tree is softer, it makes it easier for small animals or birds, such as squirrels, raccoons, owls and woodducks, to break through the bark to create nesting cavities. This kind of wildlife is worth attracting to your property.

Reconsider having dead or decaying trees removed unless they pose an active danger to your home. Find out if you need tree removal in Kansas City by contacting us at Cartwright Tree Care today.