Washington has many trees

The natural beauty of Washington State is a treasure trove of diverse geography and landscape. From the rugged, desert-like landscapes east of the Cascades to the rainforests on the wet side of the Olympic Mountains, hardwood trees and rugged pines all call Washington home. Many of these trees are home to various bird species.

I kept looking up, seeing a nest of leaves and thinking it was a bird’s nest.

If you stop and look at the trees in your neighborhood, you may notice large clumps of leaves high up. They are easier to find in the winter – when the leaves have fallen off.

Although you might assume that these are bird nests, there is more to them than meets the eye. Many of these nests were originally intended as homes for birds – many of these large nests with old, dry leaves and twigs are home to – squirrels.

Dreys

These leafy structures, known as dreys, serve as cozy homes for squirrels year-round. Hidden by dry autumn leaves during the warmer months, they provide shelter and refuge for squirrels. They have been repurposed and expanded to allow them to rest, stay warm, and raise their young.

So next time you’re strolling through Washington’s natural splendor, take a quick look up and you might spot a den, a hidden gem in the tree canopy that offers a glimpse into the fascinating lives of these year-round tree dwellers.

THE INFORMATION: Geography Empire