Wildlife Brush Pile Creation

Project on January 16, 2021

by Bill, photos by Sarah

During work day last month, four folks built a wildlife habitat structure. They started by getting the material – felling and bucking up a weevilled-pine tree in pasture to give more light to shaded-out apple trees (above).

Operating the skidder to get the material to the construction site. Design engineer starts building the habitat. Log crib begins to form interior. Brush pile is tied into existing fallen tree, which adds diversity to this habitat.

After the crib was built, other features were added to enhance habitat complexity, reinforce stability & increase “live-ability” (e.g., logs piled on side at angles and old wool for nesting, insulation, flooring).

We stock piled branches during the tree felling process, which were added for the habitat roof – wind/rain protection weather, insulation, and hiding cover.

The completed wildlife brush pile is about 6-7 ft tall & 15-18 ft in diameter. Located along edge of field, forest, and wetland/stream to provide opportunities for food, water & foraging. Now open for business! Plus, three happy apple trees have more light and we’ve increased the field area.

More info on brush piles for wildlife habitat here (Natural Resources Conservation District).