Why We Need Oaks, and How to Save Them with Doug Tallamy

Using the months of the year as a backdrop, ecologist and New York Times bestselling author Doug Tallamy showcases the myriad of life that depends on oaks, from caterpillars and other insects — and the birds that feed on them — to a cast of acorn-eaters. He also details the many ecosystem services that oaks provide. These long-lived trees are champions at storing carbon, and their enormous root systems help stabilize soils and buffer floods. Oaks are in decline due to the combined stress of climate change, drought, and pests and pathogens. Tallamy writes, “We cannot casually accept the loss of oaks without also accepting the loss of thousands of other plants and animals that depend on them.” Optimistically, he shares how restoring oak populations is possible and that there is no shortage of places to plant them, if we work together. About Cary Institute of Ecosystem Studies: We are an independent nonprofit center for environmental research. Since 1983, our scientists have been investigating the complex interactions that govern the natural world and the impacts of climate change on these systems. Our findings lead to more effective management and policy actions and increased environmental literacy. Staff are global experts in the ecology of: cities, disease, forests, and freshwater. Cary Institute is committed to engaging the public through environmental programming and content. Our live streamed and in-person lecture series connects public audiences with environmental luminaries and leading ecologists. Connect with Cary Institute: Visit Cary Institute’s website: https://www.caryinstitute.org Follow Cary Institute on Facebook:   / caryinstitute   Follow Cary Institute on Instagram:   / cary.institute   Connect with Cary Institute on LinkedIn:   / cary-institute-of-ecosystem-studies   TIMESTAMPS 00:00:00 - Introduction and Background of Doug Tallamy 00:02:26 - The Importance of Insects and Oaks 00:05:33 - Oaks as Lifelines for Wildlife 00:10:21 - Oak Reproduction and Mutualism with Birds 00:26:16 - Oak Traits and Landscaping Myths 00:31:34 - Oak Leaves and Soil Community 00:36:12 - Oak Gall Wasps and Caterpillars 00:41:05 - Oak Caterpillars and Bird Migration 00:45:32 - Cicadas and Katydids 00:55:59 - Biodiversity Crisis 01:01:05 - Threats to Oaks and Forest Resilience 01:07:13 - Q&A