411 Oak Trees

• Oak trees are native to the Northern hemisphere. The usual lifespan of an oak is about 200 years, but some live over 1,000 years. Oak trees grow to an average height of about 15 to 21 meters (50 to 70 feet) and have a spread of as much as 15 meters (50 feet) from branch to branch when fully grown. Many species of oaks are under threat of extinction in the wild, because of the habitat destruction, over exploitation, diseases and introduction of invasive species.
• The fruit is a nut called an acorn. One oak produces more than 2000 acorns every year. Wildlife that consume acorns as part of their diets includes jays, pigeons, duck, pigs, bears, deer, squirrels and mice.

• The leaves and acorns of the oak tree are poisonous to cattle, horses, sheep, and goats in large amounts due to the toxin tannic acid, and cause kidney damage and gastroenteritis.
• Oak wood has great strength and hardness. The wood is very resistant to insect and fungal attack because of its high tannin content. It is used in the manufacture of ships, furniture, floorings and barrels.