Why do many wildlife species need both forest cover and open areas?

Many wildlife species require a diversity of conditions because they have distinct needs for different life stages and daily activities, such as feeding, nesting, and seeking shelter.1

While forests provide a "closed" habitat that retains moisture and offers protection from the elements, open areas—which are free of tree cover—often provide different resources. For many animals, food and cover are more plentiful in the early stages of forest development or in the "forest edge" where these two environments meet. By utilizing both forest cover and open areas, species can access the specific environmental requirements essential to their existence.12

Resource managers often aim to increase this edge habitat to support wildlife, as it allows animals to benefit from the protection of the woods while accessing the resources found in more exposed, open landscapes. Consequently, managing for a variety of conditions is a key strategy in supporting the well-being and population health of diverse wildlife species.1