Birds I Mammals I Fish I Reptiles & Amphibians I Insects

  

Birds and the Lake Ontario Shoreline

A naturally vegetated shoreline is of significant importance to birds. Birds use the shoreline and wetlands for migratory rest stops, nesting areas and as a place to find food.

 
Mallard       Black Tern
 
Waterfowl eat the nutritious roots and tubers of emergent wetland plants.
  
Many birds such as the Black Tern, an endangered species in New York, nest in wetlands.
  Shorebirds
Osprey    
  Dead trees are used by Osprey, Bald Eagles, Belted Kingfishers and flycatchers as fishing sites.   Migratory birds feed on the abundant insects that hatch along the shore during the spring. Shoreline woodlots and shrubby areas are important resting stops for migratory birds.
           
   
Quick Tips for Attracting Birds to Your Property

To attract more songbirds to your property try the following:


To attract more hawks and owls to your property protect mature trees. Mature trees are used by hawks and owls as nest sites and perches.

To attract more gamebirds, such as Wood Ducks and Ruffed Grouse, to your property:

  • Delay mowing pastures until late June to increase nesting success
  • Maintain a diversity of trees and shrubs
  • Provide nest boxes for wood ducks

To find out more about attracting birds to your shoreline, visit the 6 Tips for Creating a Wildlife Friendly Shoreline page.
   
   
   


New York Sea Grant I SUNY Oswego I Oswego, NY 13126
315-312-3042
Designed by Molly Thompson, Dune/Habitat Educator
mat36@cornell.edu