rödrävar

Rödrävar, commonly known as "redwoods" in English, refers to a group of coniferous trees native to the Pacific Coast of North America. The term is primarily used in Swedish and other Scandinavian languages to describe the genus *Sequoia* and *Sequoiadendron*, which include the coast redwood (*Sequoia sempervirens*) and the giant sequoia (*Sequoiadendron giganteum*), respectively. These trees are renowned for their impressive size, longevity, and ecological significance.

Coast redwoods are the tallest trees on Earth, with some specimens exceeding 379 feet (115 meters) in height. They thrive in the foggy, temperate climate of coastal California and Oregon, where they form dense, ancient forests. Giant sequoias, on the other hand, are among the most massive trees by volume, with some individuals weighing over 2,000 tons. They are found at higher elevations in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, where they grow in groves rather than continuous forests.

Both types of redwoods are highly resistant to fire, disease, and decay, contributing to their longevity. Some coast redwoods are estimated to be over 2,000 years old, while giant sequoias can live for more than 3,000 years. Their bark, which can be up to 12 inches thick, acts as a natural fireproof barrier, allowing them to survive periodic wildfires that clear underbrush and promote new growth.

Rödrävar play a crucial role in their ecosystems, providing habitat for numerous species of birds, mammals, and insects. They also help regulate local climates by releasing moisture into the air and stabilizing soil. Due to their ecological importance and cultural significance to Indigenous peoples, many redwood forests are protected within national and state parks, such as Redwood National and State Parks in California.

Logging and land development have historically threatened redwood populations, leading to conservation efforts aimed at preserving these iconic trees. Today, they remain symbols of resilience and natural wonder, attracting visitors from around the world.