Habitat for Wildlife
 Scientists at the Natural Resources Institute at Oregon State University indicate that the South Ridgeline area in Eugene supports a large diversity of wildlife, based upon studies of similar habitats in other locations. This analysis indicates that habitats along the south ridgeline support:
• 6 species of native amphibians
• 13 species of native reptiles
• more than 70 species of native birds are believed to nest in the area
• 42 species of native mammals
In addition, information from the North American Butterfly Association indicates that open spaces along the south ridgeline area also provide habitat for more than 30 species of native butterflies. Local bird experts have also recorded more than 20 additional species of birds using the forested areas for feeding and resting during migration periods in the spring and fall.
Most visitors to the ridgeline area will never see more than a fraction of these species. Many of the mammal species are nocturnal, and are active only at night, while most of the reptiles and amphibians live under forest litter and downed logs, or spend part of the year underground. Some species only venture out during wet weather, while others are only seen during a few months of the year. Many bird species nest and feed high in the forest canopy, and therefore are more likely to be heard than seen. Here are some of the terrestrial (i.e., species that don’t fly) wildlife species that are expected to be found in the south ridgeline area: |
Native Amphibians
Native Reptiles