Ground layer

The ground layer contains leaf litter, fallen twigs and logs (wood), and soil.

Leaf litter is made from dead leaves that fall in autumn and then rot.

Mosses and fungi also grow on the ground.

The ground layer provides food and shelter for animals, like birds and small invertebrates. Invertebrates are animals that do not have a backbone.

Some animals (invertebrates) feed on the leaf litter, wood and soil.

Some animals (birds and invertebrates) feed on other animals.

The leaf litter, twigs and logs provide shelter. Small invertebrates can hide from predators (animals that want to eat them) and shelter from the weather.