Forest Snags & Critical Habitat

In the forest a standing dead or dying tree is referred to as a Snag.
Also termed Coarse Woody Debris, I see a few of these areas off dirt roads and around Island trails.

Many species of birds can thrive in this critical habitat. Bare branches make for convenient look out. Decayed and hollow cavities provide a dark and safe nest. And for both birds great and small there is the convenient diet of insects that live off rotting bark and naturally recycled nutrients.

Actually, a dead tree can be a perfect “living” example of biodiversity.

On Fishers Island, look for water hunting birds like Kingfishers and Osprey with a fresh fish catch or perched and watching for predators. Then listen for the tapping of a Woodpecker dining out.

A few Snags stand along the Peninsula and offer primping and preening posts for local Fish Crows and Egrets.