Acorn production is of primary importance to many birds and mammals. Cavity nesters are an important component of oak-hickory forests. Many animals that depend on Illinois savanna or open woodlands are decreasing in abundance due to forest closure caused by fire exclusion. Forests in the north-central states offer a wide variety of recreational opportunities. Forests in the north-central states provide habitat for most big game, and many small game animals including game fish.
Diverse vegetation is important for maintaining wildlife species diversity in oak-hickory forests.
Mature stands are high in cavity and den value. Regeneration cuttings in even-aged stands create openings and edge habitat. Removal of culls and snags from oak-hickory forest stands has detrimental impact on cavity nesting species. For high quality bird habitat clearcuts should be kept small and planned so that each management unit contains diverse stand age classes. Leaving dead snags and trees with heart rot during regeneration cuts and subsequent thinnings may maintain habitat for cavity nesting species.