News Release
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 21, 2003

SEVERE WINTER WEATHER AFFECTS OHIO'S WILDLIFE

COLUMBUS, OH -- Severe weather, involving heavy snow accumulation and ice storms, can cause stress on wildlife, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) Division of Wildlife.

The majority of Ohio wild birds and animals are well suited to survive the state's weather changes. But some of those creatures are on the northern-most edge of their ranges in Ohio, and survival becomes more difficult during extremely harsh winters.

“During the blizzards of 1977-78, extended periods of deep snow and frigid temperatures took a heavy toll on some Ohio bird species such as the Carolina wren and bobwhite quail,” said Scott Hull, a wildlife biologist and coordinator of Ohio’s Breeding Bird Survey.

Hull noted that while Carolina wren populations have since recovered, the ODNR Division of Wildlife continues to work to increase the bobwhite population and distribution in the state.

In comparison, animals like the snowshoe hare are near the southern-most edge of their range in Ohio, and snow cover helps this species to survive. The snowshoe hare’s hind feet are up to 7 inches long and contain webbing between the toes. This feature enables the hare to stay on top of deep snow. In winter, the hare’s fur turns from brown to white, allowing it to blend into snowy surroundings. These are important adaptations for survival since the hares are a favorite meal of some mammals and birds of prey.

Fish survival is also affected by accumulated snow on frozen pond surfaces. Winterkill can occur when snow blocks sunlight, reducing photosynthesis and oxygen levels in the water. Fish and other underwater organisms can literally suffocate during these periods. The most effective method to increase oxygen production is to remove snow from at least a third of the pond surface. If ice thickness is unsafe for snow removal, ODNR recommends that as much shoreline snow be removed as possible.

Severe ice storms may be the one weather event with greatest potential to impact wildlife. A thick coating of ice on everything makes food sources inaccessible. But fortunately for Ohio wildlife, most ice accumulations dissipate within a few days of a storm.

Wildlife experts caution against leaving food out for wildlife, except that used in back yard bird feeding stations. Food provided by people can be foreign to an animal's digestive system and cause illness or death. The best thing to do for all forms of back yard wildlife is to develop a plan of action for next spring. Planting natural food sources in the form of berry and nut-producing trees and shrubs is the best way to help provide for wildlife in the dead of winter.

During severe winter weather, people with bird feeding stations need to keep feeders full and free of ice and snow. A fresh, unfrozen water source is also important. Snow underneath feeders should be cleared, allowing birds to forage on the ground. These few extra steps can make things easier on the birds, which in turn will increase bird-viewing opportunities - a great cure for cabin fever!

For more information call 1-800-Wildlife or visit the ODNR BIRDCAM web site at ohiodnr.com