The afterlife of a tree

Spotted this tree (or its remains) walking down from the Merrick in Galloway Forest Park.

Collapsed co-dominant stems? Or something more sudden - possibly a lightning strike?

Either way, a wonderful testament to the ability and importance of trees, even after they have died. How many epiphytes grow on this structure, how many bats, beetles and other animals call it home, and how many detritivores and fungi has it fed?

And furthermore, it is as awe-inspiring as any man-made sculpture.