Do Upland Birds Benefit From Hedgerows Near Grasslands?

Native Grass Restoration for Upland Birds

Native grass restoration is a crucial step in creating a thriving habitat for upland birds. When incorporating hedgerows near restored grasslands, land managers can expect a significant increase in nesting cover for species such as bobolinks, meadowlarks, and eastern meadowlarks. Research has shown that incorporating native grasses like big bluestem and indiangrass into the restored area can support up to 30% higher bird densities compared to non-native grasses.

Hedgerow Characteristics for Upland Birds

To effectively utilize hedgerows as nesting habitat for upland birds, land managers should focus on creating hedgerows with specific characteristics. These include a mix of native shrubs and trees, such as dogwood and cedar, which provide dense foliage and structural diversity, as well as a height range of 3-6 feet to accommodate species like the eastern meadowlark. Additionally, incorporating a north-south orientation and using native grasses like switchgrass can help to create microclimates that support early-season nesting. By incorporating these characteristics, land managers can create effective hedgerow systems that provide upland birds with the necessary resources for successful nesting and foraging.

Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) Considerations

Land managers working within the Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) can incorporate hedgerows into native grass restoration projects to enhance biodiversity and provide additional habitat for upland birds. To maximize the effectiveness of hedgerows within a CRP project, land managers should focus on using native grasses that are well-suited to the local climate and soil conditions. In areas where warm-season grasses like switchgrass and big bluestem are dominant, incorporating native shrubs and trees into the hedgerow system can help to create a more diverse and resilient ecosystem. By working within the CRP framework, land managers can create effective hedgerow systems that support upland bird populations and contribute to the long-term health of the ecosystem.