Ok, so before I take down my elm tree, I really want a plan in place for a new one

[jxl]

8. an oak

Look at oaks as a possibility. The are big, long lived, and, most importantly, produce caterpillars that birds feed to their babies. (Chickadees need 6-9,000 caterpillars to raise a brood of nestlings.)

Dr. Doug Tallamy, from the U. of Delaware, writes a lot about how trees are important for birds. Just google his name and you will find out about books he's written, studies he and his students have conducted, and other recommendations about how to manage your yard to benefit wildlife.

Good luck.