An ancient forest works in all
directions. It works from the ground up, from the canopy down, and even
from the inside out.
An ancient forest works in all
directions. It works from the ground up, from the canopy down, and even
from the inside out.
There are different tree heights
created by the mixture of young and old trees. This forms a
multi-layered canopy.
The web of branches provides
pathways for animals to travel from the top of the tallest tree to the
forest floor.
Some animals, such as the red backed
vole, spend almost their whole life in the trees. They seldom come down
to the forest floor.
The dense roof that these branches
create helps to keep temperatures constant.
Where ancient forests cover a large
area, they help keep the local climate from extreme heat or cold. Large
forested areas may slow global warming.
The canopy also acts as a natural
air purifier. The billions of needles and leaves filter pollution from
the air.
Old Growth Forests
Plants and Animals
Mount St. Helens
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