The terrain is often rugged, with fallen logs, scattered boulders and steep slopes. Creeks, seeps and springs dot the landscape and dense rhododendron thickets (called "laurel thickets") make travelling difficult.
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Due to high winds, old age and other natural causes, trees frequently fall over, which creates openings (gaps) in the forest. These openings promote species diversity by creating additional and...
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Steep slopes and a dense canopy of deciduous tress obscure the sun. As a result, the florest floor tends to be in deep shade for most of the year.