CHAPTER 4 - Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
CHAPTER 4 - Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
CHAPTER 4 - Western Pennsylvania Conservancy
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
Connoquenessing Creek Watershed Conservation Plan<br />
Chapter 4. Biological Resources<br />
these species are rebounding from the devastating effects humans have had on their species (McNab &<br />
Avers, 1994).<br />
Typical bird species found within these ecoregions<br />
include the wild turkey, ruffed grouse, barred owl, pileated<br />
woodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, eastern phoebe, bluegray<br />
gnatcatcher, Acadian flycatcher, white-eyed vireo,<br />
ovenbird, Kentucky warbler, yellow-breasted chat, summer<br />
tanager, red-tailed hawk, great-horned owl, belted kingfisher,<br />
northern flicker, great crested flycatcher, white-breasted<br />
nuthatch, red-breasted nuthatch, eastern bluebird, gray catbird,<br />
American redstart, scarlet tanager, chipping sparrow, rubythroated<br />
hummingbird, screech owl, and wood duck, to name a<br />
few. Many migrating birds nest in the region during the spring<br />
American robin<br />
and summer months, and offer spectacular displays for bird<br />
watchers to enjoy. Also, wild turkey and ruffed grouse are<br />
important game species for hunters. Peregrine falcons and bald eagles, once devastated by pollution and<br />
adverse effects of DDT and other pesticides in the food chain, are rebounding and returning to western<br />
<strong>Pennsylvania</strong>. These species are high profile examples of nature’s resiliency and serve as good<br />
educational tools in teaching the youth about environmental responsibility.<br />
Amphibians and reptiles typically found within these ecoregions include the red-spotted newt, dusky<br />
salamander, fence lizard, American toad, wood frog, spring peeper, box turtle, snapping turtle, painted<br />
turtle, ringneck snake, northern water snake, black rat snake, copperhead, smooth green snake, and milk<br />
snake. Many amphibians, particularly lungless salamanders, can be studied as indicators of ecosystem<br />
quality. Reptiles, such as snakes, turtles, and lizards, help to keep populations of pests, such as mice,<br />
voles, and insects, under control.<br />
Fish species vary depending on the size, temperature, and degree of pollution in a particular stretch<br />
of stream. Species common in smaller, cold-water streams include trout, southern redbelly dace, creek<br />
chub, barred fantail darter, and greenside darter. Largemouth bass, bluegills, channel catfish, and crappies<br />
can often be found in the warmer, larger waters of man-made reservoirs and larger, slower moving<br />
sections of the creek.<br />
Natural Habitats<br />
Backyard Habitat<br />
Forestlands provide habitat for plant and animal species,<br />
timber for fuel and wood products, income possibilities from<br />
other forest products for private forest owners, and recreational<br />
opportunities. Not only are the rural forest blocks and riparian<br />
buffer areas we typically envision important for the<br />
sustainability of healthy ecosystems and water quality, but<br />
urban forestry also is an important aspect of watershed<br />
conservation. Trees planted in urban settings and along<br />
roadways perform a number of functions, ultimately<br />
improving the livability and attractiveness of communities.<br />
Even small wooded lots may host a<br />
diverse array of plants and animals<br />
Trees in urban settings help to regulate heat radiation and ambient air temperature by shading sidewalks,<br />
parking lots, and roads. They may control erosion and help manage stormwater. Trees can be utilized to<br />
reduce energy costs and improve property values. Trees in urban settings will also improve the air quality<br />
of the city, improve a community’s sense of pride, and enhance business and economic development.<br />
<strong>Pennsylvania</strong> Community Forests (2007) and <strong>Pennsylvania</strong> Department of Conservation and Natural<br />
4-2