Features and Conclusions of Survey of Audubon Wildlife Sanctuary
G. FEATURES
1. Wildlife Noted
Since birds are regularly being surveyed by Audubon Society members, they were not a part of this study. Large organisms noted were squirrels, chipmunks, rabbit and box turtle. Also seen were insects such as bees, ladybugs, damsel flies, butterflies and ticks.
2. Avoidances.
Irritating pests and things to avoid would include poison ivy, numerous ticks, bees, cut tree stumps, holes and fallen logs.
CONCLUSIONS
These few acres in Mountain Brook represent a wonderfully diverse area with five fairly well-defined microhabitats and should probably be maintained much as it is with minimal
1. Suggestions for Future Surveys
Additional studies would include more tree and understory plant identification, geology, soil studies, fauna identifications including insects, spiders and vertebrates. Wild flowers and other plants should be identified by season throughout the year.
2. Recommendations for Use of Sanctuary.
A. Limit access to the area. It became apparent that even with a small class of nine people that the habitats could be easily trampled. The fact that it has no easy access is probably a blessing.
B. Keep the field cut so that pioneer species, flowers and animals characteristic of this habitat can be maintained for study and enjoyment.
C. Create and maintain certain pathways so that people can enjoy the natural setting with out tramping the habitat. This will also avoid part of the tick problem.
D. Allow small study groups such as the Samford University class to continue study projects which will contribute to our knowledge and enjoyment of the area.
E. Guided educational tours with a docent for small groups might be a future possibility.
References (next page)
Table of Contents (home)