Jack Pine is a fire-adapted conifer of the boreal zone with serotinous cones that remain closed for decades, opening only when heated to at least 140°F by fire. It forms the specialized habitat required by the Kirtland's warbler, one of the rarest songbirds in North America. It grows on dry, sandy, nutrient-poor soils unsuitable for most other trees.
Habitat
Sandy, acidic, nutrient-poor soils in the boreal zone and Great Lakes region
Diet
Seeds eaten by crossbills and red squirrels; sole nesting habitat for Kirtland's warbler
How common
Common
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