The Compost Heap, at the southern end of the Hundredth Acre Woods. A rail fence divides it from the back yard (to the left). All the mice that were captured were released here for a variety of reasons. Small bugs that are a food source exist in the decaying matter. Mice are family oriented, and will recognize their own kin when reunited after being separated. Decaying organic matter generates heat, providing warmth as well as shelter over the winter months. The light brown mass in the foreground is compressed grass clippings. During the winter, seventeen separate mouse burrows were visible within it.