There are about 80 species of oaks in North America. Oak trees provide shade for all wildlife. The shade cast by their leaves determines the pattern of plant growth below. They decompose to enrich the soil when dead. Rotting leaves provide food for fungi, earthworms, snails, slugs and millions of organisms.
Oaks provide shelter for hedgehogs, adders, mice and other mammals.
White oak trees can grow from between 60 and 150 feet. The white oaks leaves are glossy and the trunk is a whitish color. An average 15 year old white oak tree can produce around 10,000 acorns per year. Over 80 different species of birds, squirrels, and other small animals eat these sweet nuts after they fall. Oaks are also used for lumber.