Boreal Forests

Boreal forests are huge stretches of evergreen trees found in cold, northern parts of the world. They are also called the taiga. These forests stretch across Canada, Russia, and Scandinavia. Boreal forests are the largest land ecosystem on Earth.

Cold and Hardy

Winters in boreal forests are long and very cold. Temperatures can drop far below zero. The trees here are mostly conifers like spruce, pine, and fir. Their needle-shaped leaves and cone shapes help them survive heavy snow. The soil is thin and acidic, so only tough plants can grow.

A Home for Wildlife

Boreal forests are home to moose, wolves, lynx, and bears. Many birds fly north to nest here in the summer. Beavers build dams in the forest's rivers and lakes. The forests also store huge amounts of carbon in their trees and soil. Protecting boreal forests helps fight climate change.

Fun Facts

• The boreal forest wraps around the top of the globe like a green belt.
• Boreal forests store more carbon than tropical and temperate forests combined!
• Some boreal trees can survive temperatures as cold as minus 60 degrees Fahrenheit.

Did You Know?

Russia's boreal forest is so big that it covers an area larger than the entire United States!