Connoquenessing Creek Watershed Conservation Plan - Western ...

Connoquenessing Creek Watershed Conservation PlanChapter 4. Biological Resourcesthese species are rebounding from the devastating effects humans have had on their species (McNab &Avers, 1994).Typical bird species found within these ecoregionsinclude the wild turkey, ruffed grouse, barred owl, pileatedwoodpecker, red-bellied woodpecker, eastern phoebe, bluegraygnatcatcher, Acadian flycatcher, white-eyed vireo,ovenbird, Kentucky warbler, yellow-breasted chat, summertanager, red-tailed hawk, great-horned owl, belted kingfisher,northern flicker, great crested flycatcher, white-breastednuthatch, red-breasted nuthatch, eastern bluebird, gray catbird,American redstart, scarlet tanager, chipping sparrow, rubythroatedhummingbird, screech owl, and wood duck, to name afew. Many migrating birds nest in the region during the springAmerican robinand summer months, and offer spectacular displays for birdwatchers to enjoy. Also, wild turkey and ruffed grouse areimportant game species for hunters. Peregrine falcons and bald eagles, once devastated by pollution andadverse effects of DDT and other pesticides in the food chain, are rebounding and returning to westernPennsylvania. These species are high profile examples of nature’s resiliency and serve as goodeducational tools in teaching the youth about environmental responsibility.Amphibians and reptiles typically found within these ecoregions include the red-spotted newt, duskysalamander, fence lizard, American toad, wood frog, spring peeper, box turtle, snapping turtle, paintedturtle, ringneck snake, northern water snake, black rat snake, copperhead, smooth green snake, and milksnake. Many amphibians, particularly lungless salamanders, can be studied as indicators of ecosystemquality. Reptiles, such as snakes, turtles, and lizards, help to keep populations of pests, such as mice,voles, and insects, under control.Fish species vary depending on the size, temperature, and degree of pollution in a particular stretchof stream. Species common in smaller, cold-water streams include trout, southern redbelly dace, creekchub, barred fantail darter, and greenside darter. Smallmouth bass, bluegills, channel catfish, and crappiescan often be found in the warmer, larger waters of man-made reservoirs and larger, slower movingsections of the creek.Natural HabitatsBackyard HabitatForestlands provide habitat for plant and animal species,timber for fuel and wood products, income possibilities fromother forest products for private forest owners, and recreationalopportunities. Not only are the rural forest blocks and riparianbuffer areas we typically envision important for thesustainability of healthy ecosystems and water quality, buturban forestry also is an important aspect of watershedconservation. Trees planted in urban settings and alongroadways perform a number of functions, ultimatelyimproving the livability and attractiveness of communities.Even small wooded lots may host adiverse array of plants and animalsTrees in urban settings help to regulate heat radiation and ambient air temperature by shading sidewalks,parking lots, and roads. They may control erosion and help manage stormwater. Trees can be utilized toreduce energy costs and improve property values. Trees in urban settings will also improve the air qualityof the city, improve a community’s sense of pride, and enhance business and economic development.Pennsylvania Community Forests (2007) and Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural4-2