FOREST EDGE HABITAT
The edge of a forest can be very important to wildlife.
This edge area is usually ignored. The neighboring
cropland or prairie or pasture ends; shrubs and tall
plants fill in the space on the edge of the forest -
they grow faster than trees. So, for a few years this
space is dense with "weeds" and "brush".
Birds and small mammals need this type of vegetation for
cover from predators and severe weather. What's more,
frequently, the type of shrubs that occupy this space
are seed-bearing or fruit-bearing. Dogwood is an example
- it grows in thickets and provides fleshy fruits that
many birds eat.
This edge habitat allows wildlife to live and feed close
to the forest. They can take advantage of the mast
producers, such as oaks, walnuts, and hickories
without having to travel great distances.
Ideally, this edge habitat should be at least 30 feet
wide without any trees shading it. The plants should
produce berries, seeds, and lots of new twigs to chew.
Foot traffic, mowing, and grazing should be eliminated
to provide safety for wildlife nests. |