What’s happening to these trees? - Ask Extension
These trees seem to have suddenly dropped quite a bit of bark. I thought deer initially, but it goes up rather high and is on several trees throughout...
Knowledgebase
What’s happening to these trees? #890797
Asked December 14, 2024, 12:57 PM EST
These trees seem to have suddenly dropped quite a bit of bark. I thought deer initially, but it goes up rather high and is on several trees throughout the woods 30-50 feet up. What could this be and how to proceed ?
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
At this time of year when trees have no leaves you can't tell for sure, but bark loss is a sign that they are either in steep decline or more likely, already dead.
Did you notice if they were dropping limbs or if they had leaves during the growing season?
If they are not in an area where their eventual fall would threaten people or property they can be left as is. Dead trees, called "snags" have remarkable value (standing or fallen) for wildlife - all types of animals- birds especially but also small mammals and beneficial insects use them for food and shelter, so it's great for biodiversity.
This page may give you clues as to what you may have noticed during past seasons and how to contact a certified arborist to assess them if needed:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree/
Christine
Did you notice if they were dropping limbs or if they had leaves during the growing season?
If they are not in an area where their eventual fall would threaten people or property they can be left as is. Dead trees, called "snags" have remarkable value (standing or fallen) for wildlife - all types of animals- birds especially but also small mammals and beneficial insects use them for food and shelter, so it's great for biodiversity.
This page may give you clues as to what you may have noticed during past seasons and how to contact a certified arborist to assess them if needed:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/how-do-you-decide-when-remove-tree/
Christine
