Backyard Wildlife Primer
(Page 9 of 14)
September/October 1986
By Raymond Zoanetti and the Mother Earth News editors
Ground-dwelling mammals such as rabbits and foxes often use abandoned woodchuck burrows for winter shelter. In new clearings or other places where such homes aren't available, the animals can be accommodated with an artificial burrow: an 18" X 18" X 12" box, built of 3/4" oak or tulip poplar, with a removable lid and two drain-tile entrances. Bury the box at or just above ground level in well-drained soil, and lay 5"- to 6"-diameter field tiles at a 30° to 45° angle from the ground to two semicircular openings at opposite ends of the box's bottom. It isn't necessary to build a floor for the burrow, but it is important to cover the lid with rocks and brush to keep out light.
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Feeders and food plots. Feeding stations are critical on newly established habitat where there is little or no food-producing vegetation. But even on mature habitat, where trees and other plants serve (as they should) as the major food source, feeders play an important role: They provide supplemental sustenance during winter and other critical periods, and they give your family an opportunity to view the creatures that visit or live on your land.
HIDDEN HAZARDS AND POTENTIAL PITFALLS OF BACKYARD HABITAT
The pleasures of managing your land to attract wildlife are many — but problems, too, inevitably come with the job. The best way to prevent them is to anticipate them . . . so here's a review of some of the more common trials and tribulations confronted by backyard naturalists:
"Weed" ordinances and other municipal or neighborhood regulations. Most communities have an ordinance that specifies a maximum permissible height for "weeds," which are usually loosely defined as any plant that is "not useful or ornamental." If you intend to let part of your property go natural, or to plant extensive stands of native wildflowers or grasses, read the ordinance. And talk with your neighbors and the local authorities; tell them of your plans and the reasons why you want to offer habitat to local wildlife. Emphasize your willingness to cooperate. Perhaps, if you proceed with your improvements radually, adding wildflowers and grasses a little at a time, the beauty and usefulness of your plantings will speak for themselves.
Usually, if all parties keep an open mind, some kind of understanding can be reached. If you do find yourself in court over the issue, you can take some comfort in knowing that — based on past decisions — your chances of winning are good.
Be sure to check for other municipal ordinances and neighborhood rules that might affect your habitat plans, too: Many towns, for instance, have stringent codes regulating the construction of ponds and even small pools.
Neighbors. The relative attractiveness of "weeds" is only one possible area of contention between wildlife-conscious homeowners and neighbors who may or may not share the same interest. Honest communication is, of course, a key element in avoiding disputes. But, also, keep your neighbors in mind when you're designing and planting. For instance, don't put brush piles or heavy cover near your next-door neighbor's garden.
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