http://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/files/Wildlife_Brushpile_Jobsheet.pdf



WHAT IS A BRUSH PILE?
The term “brush pile” describes a mound or heap of woody
vegetative material constructed to furnish additional
wildlife cover. Brush piles can be fashioned in many
different ways to meet various cover needs for particular
wildlife species.



OTHER CONSTRUCTION OPTIONS
A simple pile of logs, wood slabs, large rocks or boulders
can be very attractive to amphibians, reptiles and small
mammals, especially when located near or within woodland
habitats. Piles of rotting logs or wood slabs not only
provide shelter, produce an abundance of food items, but
also maintain the moist conditions required by woodland
amphibians.



Rock Piles
Amphibians and reptiles such as frogs, lizards, salamanders
and snakes will benefit from rock piles. Besides providing
shelter and basking areas, the rocks absorb heat during the
day and radiate warmth at night.



Rock piles should start with the largest rocks (or boulders)
on the bottom of the stack to create hiding places between
rocks. Broken slabs of concrete can also be used for the
foundation by arranging them loosely to form tunnels and
cavities. Digging depressions under large flat rocks can
create temporary pools for breeding frogs and salamanders
(see Figure 4).
General Recommendations
Build a mound of rocks and stones of different shapes
and sizes, arranging the rock pile in a way that creates
openings for shelter.
Place pieces of chimney tile, old clay field tile or
lengths of pipe at the base for entrances and tunnels.
Add flat rocks on top for amphibians and reptiles