Shrublands and Grasslands


Rob York,
U.C. Berkeley Dept. of Forestry
Shrublands are open areas dominated by shrubby plants with multiple woody stems. Grassy patches grow between the dense clusters of shrubs, as may a few taller trees.

Grasslands are dominated by non-woody plants such as grasses and wildflowers. Woody plants and trees are mostly non-existent. Depending on the region and historic use of the land, grasslands may grow in fertile areas subject to significant rain, or arid areas with poor soil quality.

There are many different types of shrublands and grasslands, characterized by specific plant communities and wildlife. In some cases, such as on subdivided ranches or other large-tract areas, these lands require similar management practices.

Why are shrublands and grasslands important to birds and the environment?

Shrublands and grasslands provide important habitat for a variety of birds and other wildlife, including upland game birds such as quail and grouse and nearly 20 other species on Audubon's WatchList. Grassland bird species are especially at risk--a recent Audubon report noted that 85 percent of grassland birds, such as the Short-eared Owl and Greater Prairie-Chicken, are in decline. A significant cause for the decline is habitat loss--most grassland species require large land tracts of at least 30 acres. Priority shrubland species, on the other hand, are not site specific and can survive in relatively small patches of shrubland.

If not managed properly, trees may start to grow on shrublands and grasslands, causing them to eventually become forests. High impact development is a primary threat to these habitats, replacing or fragmenting large, open tracts and leaving a patchwork of isolated habitats that may be too small to support many species of wildlife. Other threats include: the conversion of habitat to forage, crop, or other private land uses; the frequent disturbance caused by agriculture, grazing, deer browsing, or mowing; and the invasion of non-native exotic plants or woody growth that displaces native communities.

Understanding the specific habitat needs of resident shrubland or grassland bird species and adapting management practices best suited for particular species is the key to successful land management and will also provide resources for other species of conservation concern.


Getting Started: What You Can Do

  • Create a land management plan that considers the specific habitat needs of resident grassland or shrubland species and adopt best practices to conserve these species. Aim to increase biological diversity and the habitat's attractiveness to birds.
  • Inventory the shrubland and grassland and determine size, existing elements, and ownership boundaries.
  • Identify potential threats from future development.
  • Survey the land for the presence of sensitive species of plants and wildlife.
  • Prioritize conservation and restoration actions with sensitive species in mind.
  • Investigate conservation easement tax credit programs for shrublands and grasslands restoration and conservation.
  • Learn fire management techniques.
  • Don't go it alone. Contact regional conservation agencies to get information and assistance from experts.

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