Backyard Wildlife

One of the benefits of living in the country is having an abundance of wildlife. While most wildlife do not pose a threat, some predators can become nuisances. They can destroy property, livestock, and pets. The section below discusses attracting wildlife and how to avoid predator problems.

Wildlife Habitat = Food + Water + Cover

Food requirements will naturally vary by wildlife species, from seeds and berries for birds to the grasses, forbs and shrubs preferred by deer and elk. Water on or near your property in the form of a pond, stream or developed stockwater will increase the variety of wildlife you will attract. Cover is needed for hiding from predators, traveling, nesting and shelter.

Creating Good Wildlife Habitat is Easy

Whether you live on a small place or a large ranch, you can help increase the amount of wildlife habitat by making a few simple changes to your backyard environment. By growing a diversity of native vegetation and maintaining a water source you will provide the necessary elements of good wildlife habitat. The type of plants you use to provide food and cover will determine the type of wildlife species that are attracted to your property.

Dead, Dying and Hollow Trees and Logs

Many people are not aware of the value of dead, dying and hollow trees, as well as logs for wildlife. Dead trees provide homes to over 80 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians in our area. Fish, plants and fungi also benefit from dead and dying trees. Consider leaving snags and downed, woody material on your property unless they pose a safety hazard.

Tips

• Consider planting native plant species first. Wildlife prefer them to non-native species.
• Plant a diversity of vegetative types and heights.
• Select plants that flower and bear fruit at different times of the year.
• Leave snags and some downed, woody material for perching, hiding and nesting.
• Plant small grains or large-seeded grasses for wildlife food.
• Develop ponds, stockwater tanks or other watering facilities.
• Bat boxes and bird houses can encourage these species that often feed on insects.

Predators and Pests

Many predators are common in Jackson County including bear, cougar, bobcat, coyote, and fox. It is important to keep in mind that many species have “territory” that you are moving onto. While most wild animals will avoid humans, their natural instinct is to kill easy prey, which often includes livestock and pets. Precautions can be taken to avoid or minimize conflict.

Livestock

While larger animals are rarely attacked, smaller animals are more vulnerable. All animals need shelter from the elements with smaller animals needing protection at night when most predators are active. A solid barn or other sturdy enclosure that can’t be entered by predators will be needed to protect your animals. Keep in mind that if you have chickens, skunks and other small predators can enter through even small spaces.

Pets

Avoid attracting predators and pests by not leaving pet food outdoors. Also, keep pets in at night. In some areas, house cats and small dogs can fall prey to predators even during the day. It is best to keep cats indoors (also for the sake of declining bird populations) and keep pets from roaming. Larger dogs can sometimes become predators , especially if roaming in packs, and can be legally shot if found chasing livestock.

Dealing with Pests

While deer are beautiful to wat ch, they are also attracted to gardens and landscaping. You may wake up to find your prize roses were browsed by hungry deer, or that everything you planted in your garden has disappeared. Netting can be draped over roses and ornamentals as a determent, but you can also select landscaping varieties that deer do not prefer to dine on (see the Sunset Western Garden book for such varieties). A tall fence around a vegetable garden is recommended.

Ground squirrels and other small animals can also pose a problem. It is not recommended that poison be used to eliminate them since non-target species and pets can die from eating the poisoned animal. Poison is also considered an inhumane method of pest control as it causes a very slow and painful death.

For tips on how to deal with nuisance animals and avoid wildlife conflicts, consult the book Wild Neighbors: the Humane Approach to Living with Wildlife, by John Hadidian, or call the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.