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Wildlife Habitat

Grasslands Main Page

The species and arrangement you select depend upon your management goals. For example, some species of wildlife such as bobolink, northern harrier, or Henslow's sparrow require large blocks of grassland. Other species, such as northern bobwhite quail, dickcissel, or American goldfinch do well in small blocks of grasslands. In many situations, these small blocks may be established adjacent to shrubs, trees, or other areas of cover. This will increase the amount of edge (transitional areas among two or more habitat types) near your grasslands, thereby benefiting species of wildlife that prefer edge habitat.

A mixture of plant species and habitat types such as grassland, old-field/brushland, and forestland provide escape, nesting, and foraging cover for a wide variety of wildlife species. You should select plants that meet the basic requirements of the wildlife species you wish to attract. Your NRCS Representative or District Wildlife Biologist can assist you in selecting the best species for your property.

A common shortfall in the majority of wildlife plantings by landowners is the lack of proper maintenance. Once your planting is established, it requires some form of disturbance (mowing, burning, thinning, disking, etc.) every one to five years to maintain its composition and structure.

• Pasture and Hay Planting / Management
• Cool Season Grasses
• Warm Season Grasses
• Habitat Establishment Enhancement and Management for Forest and Grassland Birds in Illinois
• Technical and Financial Assistance for Grassland Establishments

2006 Grassland Workshop
Streaming video and PowerPoint handouts of a continuing education workshop held in Jasonville, Indiana and Goose Pond. [See more]