Managing Land in the Piedmont for Birds and Other Wildlife

​Nearly 130 species of birds breed in the Virginia Piedmont. Data show that populations of many of these species have declined in recent decades. Habitat loss and degradation are the most significant factors causing these declines.

This guide provides landowners with an introduction to land management concepts and conservation tools that can be used to benefit wildlife and counter some of the threats faced by declining bird species. Although this guide focuses specifically on birds, management that is beneficial to birds often benefits other wildlife that share the same habitats.

If you own land in the Virginia Piedmont, whether a large farm or estate, or a small backyard, you can help provide valuable habitat for birds. Simple changes can provide great benefits to birds and other wildlife. For example, allow native vegetation to grow along a fence row, or reduce your lawn footprint by removing turf and planting wildflowers.