Natural Features & Ecosystems

The Interconnected Ecosystems of Oregon Caves

At Oregon Caves National Monument, two distinct ecosystems coexist—an ancient old-growth forest above ground and a fascinating cave system below. These ecosystems intersect in what is known as the "twilight zones" of caves, the areas near cave entrances where light from the forest can penetrate. In these zones, photosynthetic plants such as mosses thrive, bridging the gap between the forest and the cave environment.

Many animals that inhabit the cave depend on the forest for sustenance, with species like bats and wood rats often found in these twilight zones. The connection between the forest and the cave is profound, as both ecosystems are intricately linked through biological, chemical, and hydrological processes. This interdependence highlights the delicate balance that sustains life both above and below ground at Oregon Caves.