As
you walk along the banks of the Neponset River, you might notice standing
dead trees, or "snags." You
might also see fallen dead trees.
Decaying
trees like these are a great habitat for many organisms. Insects
and fungi like to eat the decomposing wood.
And, woodpeckers like to eat the
insects! Small animals, including birds,
use the trees as home.
The
next time you are by the river, spend a while by one of these
special habitats. Carry a magnifying glass or a pair of binoculars.
Wait quietly and move only a very little bit. You might see
something very exciting!
What
can you look for on a snag or fallen log? ...
Moss and lichen, fungi, mushrooms, ferns, spiders, beetles,
snails, a surprised squirrel or a chipmunk, salamanders and scat....
And
who might be watching you as you explore the forest? A
very curious, quiet and still fox!
