Urban trees provide many benefits, both to humans and non-human residents of the urban space. Like most tree related benefits, wildlife benefits increase with the age and size of the tree, and even with the eventual death and decay of the tree. In some ways, a tree is never as full of life as it is when it’s dead!
Obviously, we can’t have big dead trees all over town; the risk is too high to property, pets and people. We can let big trees with decay cavities stand, though, if those don’t actually present a likely chance of breaking apart. The European Tree Pruning Standards of 2021 recommend leaving some thick, short dead stubs in trees for their wildlife value.
Many species of small beetles and other insects will start to feed on a branch as it’s dying, and may speed up death. Larger beetles come looking to eat the smaller ones. Woodpeckers come after any and all of them. If the wood is soft enough, these birds will carve out a nest and lots of other birds may end up occupying the hole over time. At some point, owls and racoons may take up residence.
As long as the overall structure of the tree remains strong enough, these “defects” should not worry us, and if fact can be celebrated for the wildlife benefits. Legacy Tree can help you assess the viability and value of these habitat trees, making space for the critters while keeping the humans safe.
Contact us to find out more about our Albuquerque tree removal services.
