It is interesting how a tree gives shelter in all kinds of weather. The needles and branches keep the snow off the ground during the storm. The sun then melts the snow from the tree branches. The tree offers shade in the summer and shelter during a storm. I have seen deer bedded down under trees out of the snow and using the tree as a windbreak. The tree also offers concealment to the animals. Birds roast among the thick branches and needles and birds of prey have a hard time seeing them, and getting to them in the thick branches.