Removal of these trees can therefore have major impacts on animal populations. Canopy damage leads to increased radiation at ground level and a drier microclimate. This can increase the extent and severity of fires. Unusual climatic events, such as an El Nino, may also play a roll. Although it is well accepted that establishing refugia is key to the maintenance of certain species, the number, size and location of refugia is still matter of debate.
Riparian strips are important for the preservation of aquatic species and stream side specialists.
However preservation of interior forest species requires refugia large enough to not be over run by edge habitat. Presence and extent of hunting. Certain species are especially prone to localized extinction caused by hunting. Logging operation increase hunting pressure in an area by building roads that provide access to formerly remote areas. Logging companies also bring in a large number of employees into a region, and may even encourage employees to hunt.