A Tree Can Be a Home – Exploring Minnesota’s Tree Habitat
From the majestic crown to the hidden depths of the forest floor, Minnesota’s trees create a vibrant habitat, teeming with a myriad of wildlife. Eagles build large, elaborate nests, carefully constructed of fallen twigs, often atop towering cottonwood trees, while great horned owls do not build nests at all. These nocturnal raptors (with two tufted feathers resembling horns) prefer to nest in hollow tree cavities or occupy abandoned nests. Even the smallest winged creatures rely on trees for their survival. For many species of Lepidoptera (moths and butterflies), oak trees play an important role in their life cycle. Answering the inquiry of inquisitive owls, let’s explore who calls our beautiful tree canopy home.
High up in the Treetops – Cottonwood Trees
The crown is the topmost part of any tree. Based on the most recent information from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR), the biggest tree in Minnesota is an eastern cottonwood tree located in Chippewa County, close to the city of Watson. High up in the crowns of immense cottonwood trees along waterways is where many eagles prefer to make their home. For a view of cottonwood trees filled with roosting eagles, take a day trip to Colvill Park in Redwing, Minnesota. In this sheltered bay, migrating eagles find solace and opportunity for hunting – an esteemed sanctuary cherished by these majestic birds. Although cottonwood trees aren’t the exclusive abode of eagles, they undeniably hold a special place in their avian hearts.
In the Cover of Canopy – Pine Trees
Pine trees are evergreen conifers, meaning they don’t lose their leaves and stay green throughout the seasons. This attractive feature provides a cozy habitat to many of Minnesota’s owls. The Minnesota Raptor Center actively rescues, rehabilitates, and releases avians that find their home in our urban tree canopy. According to a long time Minnesota Raptor Center volunteer, there are many different owls that call pine trees home. “Great [horned owls] prefer pine trees; they use old nests from crows or squirrels – anything but their own. Barred owls like anything with a hole so they can live in the cavity. I have encountered many eagles that like to nest atop white pine trees.” The volunteer also states, “Horned owlets often fall from their nests in early spring around March. If I can save the owlets, our team is able to use pine branches and leaves – for a soft cushion – to construct a nest and return the babies to the exact tree they fell from.” For more information on the good work the Minnesota Raptor Center does to care for our wildlife, click here.
Leaves, Branches & Acorns – Oak Trees
The twisting, curling branches of the majestic oak tree boast an impressive silhouette. This picturesque tree is also known as the king of biodiversity. A recent article in The New York Times, “Why You Should Plant Oaks,” offers an impressive statement: “Oaks support more life-forms than any other North American tree genus.” Acorns produced by oak trees provide an easy, delicious meal to Minnesota animals such as deer, gray squirrels, red squirrels, chipmunks, wild turkeys, crows, flying squirrels, rabbits, opossums, blue jays, quail, raccoons, wood ducks – and the list goes on. In fact, oak trees support 897 different species of caterpillars. Oak leaves offer a space for caterpillars to lay their eggs and, once the eggs hatch, the leaves become a vital food source for caterpillar larvae. A thriving caterpillar population in turn feeds hungry birds and their families. Surviving caterpillars use oak leaves and branches as they transform into moths and butterflies – important pollinators vital to the bloom of flowers and plants.
From Roots to Crown
From the roots to the crown, trees provide a year-long habitat to many kinds of wildlife, big and small. Planting trees on your property is a great way to create your own animal habitat to enjoy all year long. Interested in planting a tree on your property? Our certified arborists are happy to answer your questions. Thanks to partnerships with local municipalities, Tree Trust offers a variety of trees at a significant discount to many Twin Cities residents. Please visit our website for more information on our upcoming spring tree sales.
