A healthy forest includes a variety of wildlife species. Forests are just one of many ecosystems (e.g., praries, oak savannahs, agriculture, etc.) that provide food and shelter for many wildlife species, which in turn provide recreational, aesthetic and ecological benefits to us. Hunting, fishing, photography, nature study and wildlife watching are activities that you may be able to enjoy on your own property. Having the ability to manage for, and see, animals that interest you can be a rewarding experience.

The benefits of wildlife go far beyond our enjoyment. Each species performs specific ecosystem functions like dispersing seeds, controlling forest pests, or pollinating trees and other plants. These functions directly benefit other living organisms and people, not to mention their existence value.

For example, squirrels bury acorns for food and the acorns that are not found again become a new generation of oak trees. In this way, squirrels help to provide for continued forest growth. Bees and hummingbirds feed on nectar, pollinating many of our native trees and wildflowers. By feeding on insects, animals such as bats, birds, frogs or dragonflies help to control insect pests that may be harmful to forests or people. Moles and other small mammals aerate and mix the forest soil. Amphibians may help control the rates of decomposition by eating insects and other invertebrates that break down leaf litter on the forest floor. Their pollution-sensitive, semi-permeable skin also allows them to serve as indicators of environmental health. Forest landowners play an important role in ensuring that present and future generations can enjoy the many ecological, recreational, and aesthetic benefits of wildlife.