The Dead Tree Hotel

Trees are essential components of our ecosystem, even after they die. They serve as food sources for insects, provide perches and nesting cavities for birds, and are places where animals such as squirrels cache food.

Of course they need to be removed when they pose a safety risk. But before thinking dead trees have little value, think again.

Here’s a Northern Flicker excavating its nest in a dead tree at Jack Layton Park.