Additional Background Information for the Pinelands Animal Unit lesson "What's My Address"

There are three major types of Pinelands habitats: uplands, wetlands (including cranberry bogs), and bodies of water (including rivers, streams, and reservoirs).

Extremely acidic Pinelands water (pH 3.6-5.2) limits the kind of aquatic or amphibious vertebrates that live in the region. Those that do live in the Pinelands include Tree Frogs, Carpenter Frogs, Black-banded Sunfish, and Red-backed Salamanders.

By contrast, of the 35 species of reptiles occurring in New Jersey, 30 are found in the Pinelands including Box Turtles, Eastern Fence Lizards, and Pine Snakes. Timber Rattlesnakes may be found in the region, but are not common.

Because of the lack of habitat diversity, only 50 of the 410 species of birds sighted in New Jersey are commonly found in the Pinelands. Rufous-sided Towhees, Blue Jays, Ruffed Grouse, and the Bobwhite Quail are some of the species found in the upland habitats. Catbirds, Yellow Warblers, and Fields Sparrows are found in low areas of dense vegetation along streams; while herons, egrets, and ducks live on streams, rivers, and lakes/reservoirs.

Of the 50 terrestrial species occurring in New Jersey, approximately 20 are common in the Pinelands. One of the most conspicuous mammals is the White-tailed Deer. By 1900, deer were almost extinct in the region; however, upon reintroduction into the region, they have flourished. Today, they are so numerous that their growth is retarded by crowding and they have caused some tree and crop (blueberry) damage.

Human beings also live, work, and recreate in the Pinelands. Natural habitats must be protected from human development, since most wild animals can't survive in close association with man. This "balance" between man and animals requires careful land planning and cooperation.

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