Life in dead trees? What is a dead tree good for besides hiding a Geocache there? In the US, about 85 species of birds, at least 50 mammal species, and other reptiles and amphibians rely on snags for shelter, food, mating, resting, nesting and other critical functions. So much for the “dead wood” notion. Woodpeckers especially love dead trees for their buggy meals. Do you have a dead tree on your property?Consider leaving it around and providing for wildlife!