Native plants have innumerable ecological benefits. They help create cleaner air, water, and soil. They’re also critical for sustaining local wildlife populations.
Several species have evolved and developed an interdependent relationship with plants. This article has five examples of animals that rely on natives for survival.
1. White-Tailed Deer
Acorns are nutritious and support a variety of wildlife. However, white-tailed deer may be their biggest fan. Deer prefer the native swamp white oak. The Bucks’ Unlimited Oak outproduces other oaks by two acorns to one! Developed by the University of Missouri-Columbia, it’s available only at Forrest Keeling.
Learn More About Bucks’ Unlimited Oak
2. Monarch Butterflies
The orange and black monarch butterfly is the most recognized butterfly. Also, their survival relies on native milkweed plants. These native species are the sole food source for this butterfly species. In short, without milkweed, the larvae would not survive.
There’s a surprising answer to why monarchs rely on milkweed. It involves the defense and security of the monarch. Milkweed contains a substance poisonous to animals that target and eat monarchs.
3. Bees
It’s hard to overestimate the importance of pollinators like bees. Surprisingly, pollination is necessary for 95% of all flowering plants and 1/3 of all crops grown for people.
The relationship between pollinators and natives is the perfect example of evolutionary interdependency. When pollinators feed on plants’ nectar, pollen sticks to their body and as they visit new flowers. Consequently they transfer the pollen, which encourages fertilization.
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4. Songbirds
Similar to pollinators, songbirds also have a mutually-beneficial relationship with native plants. Birds of all types relish fruits and acorns throughout the year. For example, after consuming, their droppings spread the seeds of native plants throughout the landscape.
5. Fish
It’s easy to overlook the impact native plants have on aquatic life. However, native plants slow rain runoff and filter pollutants through underground roots. Surprisingly, healthy native plant populations help create healthy fish!
Plant native plants along a shoreline to reduces toxins that enter a waterway. We’ve also put together a guide to help you build your own rain garden. Check out this article for inspiration.
Your Experts in Native
Forrest Keeling has an exceptional selection of native species. Each plays a role in restoring natural habitats and ecosystems. We grow hundreds of native tree, shrub, perennial, and grass species. Additionally, our plants have the added benefit of our patented RPM-production technology. A Forrest Keeling team member can guide your selection of native options. Together, we’ll find the right plants for your projects.
Forrest Keeling Nursery… it’s where the best natives begin! Contact us today.