Temperate forests contain far more varieties of trees and shrubs than are found in conifer forests. Because the shade in these forests is not so great, there is far more undergrowth and larger clearings between the trees. During the lifetime of a tree such as the oak, large branches fall off and rot on the forest floor, providing a rich habitat for fungi and small animals. Other fungi live naturally in association with tree roots, and their mushrooms are eaten by mice and squirrels. Foxes are common predators in temperate forests. Deer graze in the clearings and feed on young trees. Many types of small seed-eating bird live in temperate forests, hunted by predators such as hawks.
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