Deciduous Forest

The deciduous forest biome is the home to many kinds of flowering trees. But by the early summer trees can use some of the food to create a build up of energy reserves and make seeds. The deciduous forest supports a diverse ecology. A warm growing season with abundant moisture encourages plants to grow, and the ground is covered with small plants, flowers, and grasses. Plants must find ways to ensure their survival through dormant periods, and to produce enough seeds to continue their species. However, when the chill of winter weather comes birds migrate south and some small animals hibernate. The soils are fertile, due to plenty of leaf litter. The non-growing season is do to temperature induced drought during cold winters. In summer the tall trees cast shades on the forest floor, and shade-tolerant plants grow. The long summers of this biome support many life forms, but the cold winters still provide formidable challenges. There are usually one or two strata of trees, an understory of shrubs, and low growing forbs. When spring comes the trees must draw to there reserve food to make new leaves. The forests consist of 3-5 layers, which are relatively open with rich ground flora. Some larger animals include cougars and bears.