Forest Canopy


Apparently, the study of the forest canopy is a still-developing science. There are may species of creatures that live in forest canopies that are never found on the forest floor. The canopy itself is the main gatherer of sunlight, obviously, but science has only recently gotten more sophisticated at studying canopy structures and biology due partly to the improvement and sophistication of climbing gear and other equipment.


Previously, studies were done using hot air balloons and other more difficult means. Being able to place scientific measuring devices at the tops of trees in old-growth forests has gotten easier.

Due to deforestation, many lichen species that are regularly found at the crowning level of trees are starting to go extinct which will cause further imbalance to an already fragile ecosystem.

 

For me, the forest canopy has always been a source of visual enjoyment. I love to look straight up in the local hiking trail and marvel at the structure and complexity of the tree branches of bare winter trees, as well as the beautiful colors of fall, and the lush green of full summer.


I enjoy the sound of tree leaves and branches gently moving about in the wind - the music of the forest.

 
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The next time you go hiking, be sure to look up and appreciate these beautiful giants that bring us our life source of clear air. We need to protect our forest friends and thus protect ourselves and our descendants on this fragile ball we call Earth.

 


For more of my images, please visit:

mary-bedy.pixels.com

Comments

  1. Dorothy Berry-LoundDecember 1, 2020 at 1:33 PM

    That's interesting and lovely photos. I guess drones have a place in studying such things these days. I remember David Attenborough in climbing gear being hoisted up by rope to take a look at a forest canopy.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Mary BedyDecember 1, 2020 at 3:53 PM

      Yes, I think drones are helping too...I assume to take detailed photos. Even though I'm kind of afraid of heights, I think I wouldn't mind climbing to the top to take a look around :-). Thanks for stopping by, Dorothy.

      Delete

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