Cairns are piles of stones that are often found in agricultural or natural areas. They are usually created by collecting stones from fields to make them usable for farming. Cairns can also be easily built in private gardens by collecting and stacking stones.

Significance of cairns

1. Habitat for animals: Coppice woodlands provide habitats for many species of animals, including insects, reptiles, amphibians and small mammals. These animals find shelter here, protection from predators and suitable conditions for hibernation.
2. Biodiversity: They promote biodiversity by providing a habitat for rare and specialised species that depend on such structures. Some plant species prefer to grow near these piles, as the stones offer protection from wind erosion and influence the microclimate.
3. Klimaregulation: Cairns can influence the local microclimate. The stones store heat during the day and release it again at night, which can lead to a milder climate in the surrounding areas.
   

Cairns create a variety of microhabitats that are suitable for different types of plants and animals. These microhabitats are created by the varying sizes of gaps and crevices between the stones, the different light and humidity conditions, and the temperature fluctuations..

• Plants: Some plant species find ideal conditions in the nutrient-poor, stony soils of the stone piles, especially those that are adapted to barren, dry locations. These plants are often rare and specialised, which increases the diversity of flora.
• Insects: Many insect species, including pollinating insects such as wild bees, use stone piles as nesting sites. The piles offer them protection and often also a rich food supply from the surrounding vegetation.
• Reptiles and amphibians: These animals use the piles as hiding places and winter quarters. The stones store heat during the day, which they release at night, which is particularly beneficial for cold-blooded animals.
• Small mammals and birds: Small mammals such as hedgehogs and various small birds also find shelter and nesting opportunities in piles of stones.