SNAGS LEFT STANDING WILL HELP WILDLIFE

Standing dead trees may appear to be useless eyesores, but a state wildlife biologist says actually they are important components of wildlife habitat and frequently in short supply.

"That ugly snag may provide a secure home for many kinds of animals and a virtual smorgasbord of insect food," said Lex Glover, wildlife biologist with the S.C. Department of Natural Resources Wildlife Section. "Downy, hairy, red-bellied, pileated and red-headed woodpeckers all feed heavily on wood-boring larvae of beetles and other insects and invertebrates found in snags."

Woodpeckers are also the primary excavators of nesting cavities in snags, Glover said. These cavities are later used by other species. Bluebirds, wrens, titmice, crested flycatchers, chickadees, nuthatches, barred owls, screech owls and kestrels all depend on cavities for successful nesting.

Cavities in snag trees are also used by mammals such as bats, squirrels, flying squirrels and raccoons. A single snag tree may contain many cavities useful to several different species, as well as providing a food supply.

"The value of snags to both wildlife and man are countless," Glover said. "Many snag-dependent species control insects and pests, and birds of prey prefer the vantage point snags afford for hunting rodents. The woodpecker's diet is filled with insects that can be harmful to man's interests."

There are two kinds of snags, according to Glover. A "hard" snag may be only partially dead, with many limbs remaining and sounds wood. This kind of snag will be beneficial for many years. A "soft" snag is more decayed, with no limbs left and advanced heart rot. Wildlife species make use of both kinds of snags, but larger snags have more value.

In woodlots, at least four to five snags per acre should be maintained, according to Glover. Snags left in open areas over water will also provide hunting perches for flycatchers, bluebirds, hawks and kingfishers. Osprey may nest in large snags near open water.

"Snags may not appear very attractive, but their value to wildlife is clear," said Glover. "Wildlife enthusiasts should take a second look at dead or dying trees on their property and include snags in their wildlife management or landscaping plans."

To view or print out a wildlife management guide on snags, visit the DNR Web site at http://www.dnr.state.sc.us/wild/img/snags.pdf or call the Columbia DNR office at (803) 734-3893.

- Written by Greg Lucas -

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