Shrublands

The Finger Lakes National Forest currently manages 1,400 acres as shrubland, emphasizing the maintenance of brushy openings for wildlife habitat and fruit production.  This habitat type is relatively uncommon in the region, due to extensive agricultural use, and lack of economic incentives for non-farmers to do the required vegetation maintenance.  A large variety of game and non-game wildlife species are dependent on shrub openings during all or part of their life cycle.  These species include pheasants, ruffed grouse, turkeys, white-tailed deer, many small mammals and songbirds.  Many varieties of edible berries and tree fruits are also found in this vegetation type. 

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