(by Michael J. Fargione) Standing dead trees are known as snags; they provide food, shelter and resting places for wildlife. As fungi and insects attack living trees and dead snags, they soften the wood, making it possible for woodpeckers and other cavity makers to create holes. These holes are also used by other animals. (source – http://www.caryinstitute.org/newsroom/messy-woods-serve-critical-purpose-forest-management)
