Create Snags with Girdling
If your woods are short on snags (standing dead trees), you can create some of this valuable wildlife habitat by girdling trees. Girdling kills a tree while leaving it standing so it can become a snag.
How to Information
Snags: Nature’s Apartment Complexes
Snags are standing dead trees. This article from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology explains their importance for wildlife and gives tips on what kinds of trees to consider for girdling to create good snag habitat.
How Many Snags Should My Woods Have for Wildlife?
Snags provide crucial wildlife habitat, but no one wants a forest full of dead trees. This brief MyWoodlot article recommends snag numbers from wildlife biologists based on tree size, because different animals use different sized snags.
Girdling Treatment
University of Kentucky Forestry Extension educator Jeff Stringer demonstrates girdling technique with a chainsaw in this three-minute video.
Complete MyWoodlot Activity: Learn about Chainsaw Safety
A chainsaw will speed up girdling, but it’s a dangerous tool if not used carefully. This activity has videos on safe chainsaw use and a link to upcoming chainsaw safety trainings.
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