Habitat How-To's: Brush Piles & Rock Piles

http://fw.ky.gov/Wildlife/Documents/brushpiles[1].pdf



Figure 4. Exits and hollows should be constructed
with the base layer of stone abd covered with two to
three layers to be effective.



3. In-ground dens
Though not really considered a brush pile, inground
den structures may be built by burying wooden
boxes, concrete or plastic septic field distribution boxes
or even 5-gallon buckets and providing at least two 4 or 5
inch drain pipe exits. Do not construct these in wet soils,
low-lying areas, or areas prone to flooding.
Build this type:
- in fields being maintained by prescribed burning.
- where the appearance of an above-ground
structure is undesired.
- where long-lasting structures are desired]



How big should a brush pile be?
A good rule is that if the brush pile does
not provide shade, protection from rain or snow or if you
can easily see or reach the animal you are trying to protect,
then the brush pile is too small. Brush piles made of tree
limbs should generally be 15 to 20 feet in diameter and
3 to 5 feet high. If made of more durable and protective
material such as stones, the structure may be as small as 4
or 5 feet in diameter.