Middens and Keystone Species in Ecosystems

The video explores a nature walk where a red squirrel's midden is discovered. A midden is a food storage pile crucial for the squirrel's survival and serves as a resource for other animals. The video explains how middens are essential for the ecosystem, making red squirrels a keystone species. It highlights the importance of studying such species to protect ecosystems and encourages viewers to think about other animals that store food or play significant roles in their habitats.

What did Squeaks find exciting during the nature walk?

• A frozen pond

• A snowman

• A big pile of pine cones and needles

• A big pile of leaves

What is a midden?

• A type of bird

• A squirrel's nest

• A storage place for food

• A type of tree

Why is it important to leave a midden undisturbed?

• It is a food source for squirrels

• It is a home for birds

• It is a playground for animals

• It is a water source

What is the main habitat of red squirrels?

• Mountains

• Grasslands

• Deserts

• Forests

Which animals might try to steal from a midden?

• Rabbits

• Bears

• Fish

• Deer

How do middens benefit other animals in the forest?

• They offer shelter and food

• They are used for nesting

• They provide water

• They are a source of heat

What is a keystone species?

• A species that supports many others in its ecosystem

• A species that migrates often

• A species that is endangered

• A species that is the largest in its habitat

What might happen if squirrels didn't build middens?

• The trees would stop growing

• Other animals would struggle to find food and shelter

• The forest would become colder

• The forest would flood

Why is it important for scientists to study keystone species like the red squirrel?

• To create new species

• To learn how to build better homes

• To understand how to protect them and their ecosystem

• To find new food sources

Which of the following is an example of a keystone species?

• A species that is very large

• A species that is very rare

• A species that helps many other species survive

• A species that is very colorful