Invertebrates:
* Insects: Ants, beetles, butterflies, moths, spiders, centipedes, millipedes, grasshoppers, crickets, earthworms, etc. These creatures play a vital role in decomposing organic matter, aerating the soil, and providing food for other animals.
* Worms: Earthworms, especially, are essential for soil health.
* Snails & Slugs: They graze on plants and fungi, leaving trails of slime.
Amphibians & Reptiles:
* Frogs & Toads: They hunt insects and other small creatures.
* Salamanders & Newts: They live in moist environments and feed on insects and worms.
* Lizards: Some species, like skinks and geckos, live on the forest floor.
* Snakes: Some snakes, such as garter snakes and rat snakes, are common inhabitants of the forest floor.
Mammals:
* Rodents: Mice, voles, squirrels, chipmunks, and rabbits are common inhabitants, feeding on seeds, nuts, and vegetation.
* Shrews: These tiny mammals hunt insects and worms.
* Deer & Elk: They browse on leaves, twigs, and grasses.
* Bears & Wild Pigs: They forage for roots, berries, and sometimes prey on smaller animals.
* Smaller Predators: Weasels, foxes, and raccoons are opportunistic hunters and scavengers.
Birds:
* Ground-dwelling Birds: Chickens, quail, turkeys, and grouse rely on the forest floor for food and shelter.
* Birds of Prey: Owls and hawks often hunt from the forest canopy, but may descend to the floor to capture prey.
Other:
* Insects: Depending on the region, you might find scorpions, centipedes, and other insects in the forest floor.
* Spiders: Many species of spiders live in the forest floor, hunting insects and other small creatures.
This is just a brief overview. The specific animals present in a forest floor will vary depending on the location, climate, and the type of forest.
It's important to note that the forest floor is a delicate ecosystem. It's essential to be respectful of the environment and its inhabitants when visiting a forest.