Native Wisconsin plants that contained high numbers of arthropoda
food for
birds during spring migrationb
by Vicki Piaskowski
| Common Name | Scientific Name |
| Pussy willow | Salix discolor |
| Red oak | Quercus rubra |
| Yellow-bud hickory | Carya cordiformis |
| Quaking aspen | Populus tremuloides |
| Black cherry | Prunus serotina |
aArthropods consisted of insect larva (caterpillars of butterflies and moths)
and eight other orders of insects, for example, cicadas, leafhoppers, flies
and beetles as well as spiders. These arthropods were quantified on vegetation
samples (branch clippings) that were sampled in a standardized manner. A total
of 15 different species of plants, both native and non-native, were sampled.
bBased on research conducted by the Zoological Society of Milwaukee
Birds Without Borders – Aves Sin Fronteras® project at the Pewaukee, Wisconsin study
site during spring migration in 2000 and 2001. (Presented at the American Ornithologists’ Union
meeting, Seattle, Washington, August 2001. For additional information contact
Vicki Piaskowski at 414-276-0339.)
Before purchasing plants, check with the nursery to be sure that the plants you choose are native to your area.
For very detailed information about Wisconsin plants that benefit birds, see:
Nowak, Mariette. 2003. Beyond the bird feeder: creating a bird friendly yard with native Wisconsin plants. Online at: http://www.wsobirds.org/birdscaping.pdf
Nowak, Mariette. 2007. Birdscaping in the Midwest: a guide to gardening with native plants to attract birds. Itchy Cat Press. Blue Mounds, WI.
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