{"id":9215,"date":"2021-07-26T10:52:34","date_gmt":"2021-07-26T10:52:34","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.forestwildlife.org\/?page_id=9215"},"modified":"2022-05-07T14:42:06","modified_gmt":"2022-05-07T14:42:06","slug":"oak-tree","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.forestwildlife.org\/oak-tree\/","title":{"rendered":"Oak Tree: Key Facts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The oak is a well-known and beautiful tree, but did you know that it comes in a wide variety of species and distinctions? Read on to learn more oak tree key facts and identification information.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quick Facts About Oak Trees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Family:<\/strong><\/td>Fagaceae<\/em><\/td><\/tr>
Genus:<\/strong><\/td>Quercus<\/em><\/td><\/tr>
Physical Description:<\/strong><\/td>Oblong, multi-lobed leaves; some are serrated or pointed, while others are rounded. Trees are generally tall with narrow to wide canopies. They produce both male and female flowers<\/a> and bear nut-like fruits called acorns<\/a>. Most oaks are deciduous, but some are evergreen.<\/td><\/tr>
Geographical Distribution:<\/strong><\/td>Widely distributed across North America and Asia; also found in parts of Europe and Africa.<\/td><\/tr>
Native Habitat:<\/strong><\/td>Varies by species; generally moderate temperate to tropical climates. Some oaks thrive in hot, dry desert climates, while others prefer colder climates.<\/td><\/tr>
Number of Species:<\/strong><\/td>Roughly 500 to 600<\/td><\/tr>
Average Height:<\/strong><\/td>40 to 80 feet depending on species and growing conditions; some grow well over 100 feet.<\/td><\/tr>
Average Lifespan:<\/strong><\/td>150 to 300 years<\/td><\/tr>
Wildlife Uses:<\/strong><\/td>– Many animals<\/a> and insects eat acorns
– Insects and some animals eat oak leaves
– Many forms of wildlife use oak bark and twigs in nest building
– Birds and small mammals take shelter on oak branches
– Larger animals take shade beneath oak trees\u2019 thick canopies<\/td><\/tr>
Human Uses:<\/strong><\/td>– Oak wood is often used in building and construction
– Trees are planted and grown for shade and ornamental reasons
– In some areas, acorns may be sold as animal feed
– Some people prepare and use acorns in cooking and baking<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

How to Identify Oak Trees<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Oak trees fall into two broad categories: white oaks and red oaks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n