Things to Consider

Figure 1. Plantings can be used to increase overall habitat quality of your property for wildlife. Three of the most important requirements for game and nongame wildlife are shelter (cover), food, and water. Increasing or decreasing the abundance of a particular wildlife species on your property will be a matter of altering the relative amounts of these basic requirements. Water seldom limits wildlife populations in Alabama, so there is little need to manage water except to attract waterfowl. In some areas, the availability of food may be a limiting factor. However, the lack of adequate cover for nesting, foraging, escaping predators, or raising young is frequently the most limiting factor on many properties. Before you begin planting for wildlife, determine which, if any, of these requirements are lacking on your property. Keep in mind that habitat requirements vary considerably among wildlife species. Consider what species you are trying to manage before making planting decisions. What may be good for one species may not be good for another.