Question
On a recent hike in upstate NY, my grandson discovered a tree that was almost completely hollow, yet contained a full set of what I have been told is a conifer branch base or a full set or "whorl" after decay. I would like to know if the picture he took might be of any interest and also, how rare a find is this in the woods?? If this is of any interest, I will send the picture he took as long as he can get credit for the picture if it is used in any publication. Thank you very much for your time and consideration in this matter.

Answer
If I understand what you are saying--this tree is completely hollow but still has foliage and is alive. If is this is entirely possible. The living part of the tree is just under the bark called the cambium layer. What happens when a tree becomes hollow is that the tree is wounded and a decay fungi can enter the woody (dead) cells and over many years will decay the wood and the tree becomes hollow. The tree is still alive but the strength of the trunk is decreased. In some cases these are classified as hazard trees. Generally a hazard tree is one that if it falls it will damage a structure or other items and cause damage. In the natural forest this is not a problem. A hollow tree means it is old and some where in its past it was wounds and a decay fungi entered. The tree can still be healthy. I am not sure I would call it rare but is it can happen in older growth forests. Pictures of hollow trees are interesting and are used in publications but I do not have a need for this type picture--other may. You might if you are interested try entering it in a photo contest that way IF someone sees it and wants to use it they would need give credit for the picture. Might check and see if AllExperts has photo section and ask one of these experts about the need for this picture.