u/AlabamaExtension-AU

Eastern gray squirrels are common wildlife neighbors across Alabama, but when they move into attics, they can cause significant structural damage and safety hazards.

Squirrels chew through electrical wiring, wood, and insulation to build nests, leading to costly repairs and potential fire risks. Effective management involves inspecting rooflines, sealing entry points with heavy-gauge hardware cloth, and trimming overhanging tree branches away from your home to prevent easy access.

Read the full ACES article to learn practical strategies for managing squirrel activity and preventing attic damage: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/eastern-gray-squirrels-managing-and-preventing-attic-damage/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUzSTRleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMVprdEJxa0g0WjByQ0VUR0xzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe_wL6qzU1UFGOVfThdHmIuMHXep7X1EAi27Eu6PeOHuOntHfIrWi9FRvjYAQ_aem_Fekf9GkZuMVwPQ2IIm8CqQ

Kudzu (Pueraria montana) is one of the most aggressive invasive vines in the South, quickly engulfing trees, yards, and residential structures if left unmanaged.

Controlling kudzu in residential landscapes requires persistence and integrated management strategies. Combining mechanical removal—such as repeated cutting or mowing—with targeted, properly timed herbicide applications helps exhaust the plant's massive root system and prevent re-establishment around homes and property lines.

Read the full ACES article to learn effective control methods and herbicide safety guidelines for residential kudzu management: https://aub.ie/kudzucontrol

Saw palmetto (Serenoa repens) is one of Alabama's native palm species, playing a crucial role in coastal plain ecosystems and pine flatwoods across the region.

Despite being overlooked in traditional landscapes, this resilient, slow-growing plant offers exceptional ecological value—providing essential shelter and food for birds, small mammals, and native pollinators. Understanding its growth habits and environmental benefits can help landowners appreciate its place in Alabama’s natural heritage.

Read the full ACES article to learn more about saw palmetto and its role in our ecosystems: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/saw-palmetto-alabamas-ancient-overlooked-palm/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUwvQhleHRuA2FlbQIxMABwZG9mAWJyaWQRMVRXTFEzVDFlVVRSNUlkTjNzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe7QViSfhMu19k4G9nzkKMXr0oQ8SHf4trEZ_VMfxgDAZuQMp9SCoUl7ofXbs_aem_0HdFCvgJS3pBpEUh9Gim4w

Water hyacinth, also known as common water hyacinth, is a non-native floating perennial aquatic plant that is native to South America.

Above the water's surface, this plant grows waxy, leathery leaves that can vary slightly in shape from round to more oval or paddle-shaped. They are often not flat but rather have a concave or convex curve along the leaf plane. At the base of the leaves is an inflated, bulb-like petiole that provides buoyancy to the plant.

Flowering typically occurs in summer through early fall. A single, erect stem will bear several showy, 6-petal flowers that are light purple in color with dark purple striations on petals and a single, bright yellow dot on the uppermost petal.

Under the water's surface, the plant grows feathery roots that can become very dense.

This plant has been reported across the southeastern U.S. and can be found in ponds and slow-moving waters in north, central, and south Alabama.

Although this plant was introduced for its beauty as an ornamental aquatic species, it can aggressively spread in stagnant or slow-moving fresh water. Dense mats or heavy infestations can negatively impact ecosystem health by reducing dissolved oxygen and outcompeting native vegetation. Navigation and recreation can also be impacted by infestations of this species. Remember to never introduce this plant or other aquarium species to water bodies. Small infestations may be hand-pulled, but larger infestations will need to be mechanically removed or chemically treated. For more information on aquatic weed control, visit our Alabama Extension website for the "Weed Management in Lakes and Ponds" article https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/fish-water/weed-management-in-lakes-and-ponds/, or call your local office.

Introduced to the USA from the Port of Mobile, AL in the 1770's. The vine is ornamental and has been in the nursery trade since the 1800's.

Rapid, aggressive growth, up to 70 feet per year. Foliage is heart shaped and 6 to 8 inches wide, shading out understory growth and trees.

Called 'Air Potato Vine' due to tan bulbils growing at leaf attachments, producing thousands of pounds per acre.

Hard to control due to bulbil transport. Biocontrol research began in the 1990's.

In 2011, the USDA released a leaf beetle from Asia. The beetles and grubs damage foliage, curtailing vine growth and bulbil production. A 2021 biocontrol feeds on bulbils directly.

Found in roadsides, forest edges, park lands, marshes, and uplands in South Alabama. Dioscorea bulbifera is a Class A noxious weed on the Alabama watch list. Biocontrol beetles in Mobile and Baldwin counties have reduced vine density. Dioscorea alata (Winged Yam) is also a noxious weed with 4 membranous wings along its stems.

As temperatures cool down in autumn, snakes become more active during the day as they search for food and warm basking spots before winter.

Most snake encounters in Alabama are completely harmless, but knowing how to respond safely protects both you and the snake. The best course of action when encountering any snake is to give it space, back away slowly, and never attempt to handle or harm it.

American beautyberry (Callicarpa americana) is a fast-growing native shrub known for its eye-catching clusters of vibrant purple berries that ripen in late summer and fall. Beyond its ornamental appeal in landscapes, this resilient plant provides exceptional wildlife value. The moisture-rich berries serve as an important food source for over 40 songbird species—including the American Robin, Brown Thrasher, and Eastern Towhee—as well as mammals like white-tailed deer, foxes, and squirrels. Historically, crushed beautyberry leaves were even used as a natural insect repellent against mosquitoes and biting flies. Read the full USDA NRCS plant fact sheet to learn more about American beautyberry's ecological benefits, wildlife value, and propagation techniques: https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/DocumentLibrary/factsheet/pdf/fs_caam2.pdf

From pollinating wild flowering plants and hard mast trees to supporting overall ecosystem biodiversity, these essential insects bridge the gap between forestry management and sustainable agriculture. Understanding how land management practices impact pollinator health helps landowners create thrive-worthy habitats for bees and native wildlife alike.

Read the full article to learn more about honey bees and their impact on natural resources: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/alabama-extension-forestry-wildlife-and-natural-resources-get-into-bees/

A recent study by Auburn University and Alabama Extension explores key insights from sawmill operators and industry stakeholders across the state. While challenges like supply chain disruptions, changing market dynamics, and workforce availability remain, Alabama’s rich timber supply and advancing technology present strong opportunities for future growth.

Read the full report to explore the current state, challenges, and future opportunities of Alabama’s forest products industry: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/farm-management/forest-products-industry-in-alabama-conditions-challenges-opportunities/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUehkNwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMUs2cGNFbkk0cEllOU83OEFzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe-oiMrbX_krJoTJMeONWWt39FNimXC10LzVBugrWCusT4dZXlBOjlWx_lf84_aem_WtQzRn69JyH1oE4NcYBvfA

Join Extension for a Bats of Alabama Habitat and Stewardship Workshop - October 26, 2026. Learn bat lifecycles, habitat, and bat house building. One bat house per family to take home, supporting stewardship for Alabama's bats!

Registration required: https://aub.ie/BatsofAlabama or call 251.246.4962

Space limited, only one registration per family required.

Feral swine cause significant damage to agricultural lands, forest ecosystems, and native wildlife habitats across Alabama.

Effective management requires coordinated efforts to assess land damage, implement targeted eradication strategies, and utilize control techniques to mitigate economic and environmental impacts. Landowners and producers can access key resources to better understand control pilot initiatives and damage assessment protocols.

Read the full ACES article to learn more about feral swine control and damage assessment: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/feral-swine-damage-assessment-eradication-control-pilot-program/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUYyQtwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMTNLckNzaWJVb0owczNsdVFzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeJaADJ8oUxl2XzDb_DLgM1cKP8bhmeICdIRHKradeKIWOZH-6kMtXKx1m4bw_aem_ov_g9naSxnb_bSqXoik72A

Mulberryweed (Fatoua villosa), also known as hairy crabweed, could be easily overlooked, but it is a non-native and thrives in moist, shaded areas. It is problematic in nurseries and greenhouses and has the potential to invade wetlands or other natural sites.

Leaves are broadly triangular or heart-shaped with a distinct petiole and have toothed margins. As the name alludes, this plant can resemble a mulberry tree seedling (Morus spp.). This annual plant tends to branch and be erect, but only reaches heights of less than 3 feet.

In summer and fall, flower clusters occur in leaf axils and can have a feathery appearance from small individual flowers. Clusters are light green or can appear purple when young, but fade to brown with age. This species can flower and produce seed when only a few inches tall.

This species was first recorded in the U.S. in 1964. It is native to eastern Asia but is now reported in scattered infestations in most states east of Texas. Container plants in nurseries and home landscapes are regular places where this weed is found, but it has also been reported in riparian and wetland areas. Be sure to inspect container plants before purchase to prevent introduction to home landscapes.

Hand pull or control plants when young to prevent flowering and seed production. Adding 2-3 inches of mulch will usually be sufficient to prevent seed germination. For control methods of larger infestations or for control in nursery settings, reach out to your local Extension office.

Interested in growing native trees that benefit both people and local wildlife?

Join us for our upcoming Natural Resources Webinar to learn more about Alabama's native fruit and nut-producing trees, their practical uses, and best practices for cultivation.

Date: September 16, 2026

Time: 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

Location: Online via Zoom

Contact: Norm Haley (nvh0001@aces.edu | 256-574-2143)

Register online to reserve your spot: https://auburn.zoom.us/.../register/MC1UJBefSM2zGesaVWdgZQ

Rivercane (Arundinaria gigantea) is North America's native bamboo species, historical canebreaks once covered vast areas of floodplain forests across the Southeast.

Beyond providing critical habitat for specialized wildlife species, rivercane plays an essential role in stabilizing streambanks, filtering runoff, and improving overall watershed health. Restoring native rivercane ecosystems helps rebuild critical habitat corridors and protects vulnerable riparian zones from erosion and invasive plant encroachment.

Read the full ACES article to learn more about rivercane ecology and restoration strategies: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/rivercane-restoration/?fbclid=IwY2xjawURKm5wZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMXV5bDhtSm8zNTVSSmI4M3NzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeY89f78F43ndRV7qYXREgsoyI_8Z_dzf-56gDueIoWfAmZfwICM3YFI-dzFQ_aem_c245RsGM5ZZrDMfCwbe78w

Wood ducks are one of Alabama's most iconic and colorful waterfowl species, relying on forested wetlands, beaver ponds, and river corridors for nesting and foraging habitat.

Effective wood duck management involves protecting naturally occurring tree cavities, maintaining quality wetland habitats, and properly constructing and installing artificial nest boxes with predator guards. Landowners can play a vital role in supporting local wood duck populations by implementing key habitat management practices.

Read the full ACES article to learn more about wood duck ecology and habitat management strategies in Alabama: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry-wildlife/wood-duck-management-in-alabama/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUP4RJwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMWROd3dVZXF1WDV6RkZNMExzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeGKHykjBWBo4dgV_BOytOA-vqtkZo-hXtpzRA-iq7esvWXgMXkjd8pHZhLNM_aem_zB542VuPTTdFMzdGSd_uGQ

Do you need to lime your ponds? Levi covers how to determine if lime is needed, what effects it will have, and how to properly apply it for your pond.

Autumn olive is a deciduous, often multistemmed shrub that can reach heights of up to 20 feet, sometimes giving it the appearance of a small tree.

Leaves are a key identification feature of this plant: the upper side is typically bright green to light gray-green, while the underside is a striking silver color due to fine silver scales.

Leaves are alternate, usually 2–3 inches long and 1 inch wide, with wavy margins.

Pastel yellow, tubular flowers appear in early spring in clusters near the stem. Small, round fruit, overall red in color but covered in fine silver or brown scales, matures from summer through early fall.

This species causes major issues in natural areas, parks, and managed forests where it can form dense thickets.

Introduced in the mid-1800s for ornamental landscaping, wildlife plantings, and erosion control, autumn olive produces fruit that is heavily consumed by birds, which has driven its rapid spread. Heavy infestations are established in the northeastern U.S., with continued spread expected across the northern half of Alabama—particularly in the northeast region. Learn more about control options through the Alabama Forestry Commission: https://www.forestry.alabama.gov/Pages/Informational/Invasive/Autumn_Olive.aspx?fbclid=IwY2xjawUNPBdwZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMUc0SEEwSkJkMm5xMXpHZFRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeeh1oITfwstzIwbLDxo60ZLFSz4GsDTwFWMeXUshgXvOz1-VPpW9t5jtTsYo_aem_-JEymXfA3jY1tRgDAyUqmQ

Trees bring valuable benefits to our landscapes, but failing or damaged trees can pose serious risks to property and personal safety.

Tree risk management involves identifying structural defects, assessing potential hazards, and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks before severe weather strikes. Regular visual inspections for signs like decay, cracks, leaning, or dead branches can help landowners address issues early and protect homes, structures, and vehicles.

Learn how to identify potential hazards and reduce tree-related risks on your property: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/forestry/tree-risk-management-mitigating-consequences-enhancing-safety/?fbclid=IwY2xjawUNO31wZG9mAWV4dG4DYWVtAjEwAGJyaWQRMUc0SEEwSkJkMm5xMXpHZFRzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEeLywzRYbm7z-fKE9pVZrvQVipTCiqhufNNevUs8-q_sujGnu4xMyFuFc4H2c_aem_AA9sznf8LkzFZh6auiJzNA