Blue-winged teal Eastern bluebirds, the New York State bird, typically nest in knot holes in wooden fence posts or in dead trees. Nesting boxes, such as this one, replace natural nest sites lost to development. A Helping Hand 2. For centuries farmers have planted hedgerows to mark the boundaries between fields or properties. Then, as now, birds and small mammals find food and shelter in the shrubs and trees of a hedgerow.
Hedgerows also form a transition zone between two different habitats, such as fields and woods.
Living together 3. Vines use trees as ladders to reach the sunlight. Vines make good hiding places or nesting sites for birds. Look for hairy-looking stems climbing up a tree trunk. In open areas poison ivy can look like a shrub.