Closed Coniferous Patch

Click on each section to find out abut species found in Closed Coniferous Patches

Closed coniferous patches are common on north-facing slopes and other areas in the open grasslands where evapotranspiration and temperatures are lower, and soils are well-drained. The amount of available moisture in the soils in these areas is greater than in the surrounding grasslands, which allows trees to establish and thrive.

The most common tree found in closed coniferous patches in BC's grasslands is Douglas-fir. Patches can range in size from a few closely spaced trees to patches with several hundred trees. Where the canopy is considerably closed, the ground may be covered with thick carpets of moss.

Closed coniferous patches are important habitat for animals, providing both for food and shelter. Some forested areas provide cooler corridors for movement through the otherwise hot grasslands. They are important habitat for seed-eating birds such as Mountain Chickadee, Dark-eyed Junco and Red-breasted Nuthatch.

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