When we talk about spring migration, obviously we talk a lot about birds. So sometimes we forget to mention another key participant – trees. For many of the birds coming to California to breed – the orioles, warblers, hawks, and many others – trees are an essential ingredient to survival and success in the spring. That is why we tell people that spring is the absolute worst time to do tree trimming. The reason should be obvious. This is when birds are nesting and young birds are unable to flee. If you do your trimming in the fall, it won’t be such a problem. Another thing to consider is that often dead trees are as important to an ecosystem as live ones. In some cases, a dead tree can even host more life. A whole variety of birds -- such as woodpeckers, owls, and hawks – use dead trees, or snags, for nesting, food storage, insect hunting, roosting or perching. So, don’t forget about your trees this spring. (photo by Andrea Jones)