Bayhead
Bayhead or baygall is a swamp habitat where bay laurels predominate.[1] The bayhead swamp is also known as a Forested Seep. Many bayhead swamps can be found in margins of creeks with little or no creek banks. Also found in deep depressional areas in flatwoods. The swamps can be described as "distinct wetland communities in the Natural Communities of Louisiana".[2] Most bayhead swamps are semi-permanently saturated, or flooded. Forested seeps are typically mixed with pine-hardwood forests, mostly on hill sides. Some herbs can be found in this area such as various Sphagnum.
Geomorphology and hydrology
The characteristics of a bayhead swamp are mostly broad, shallow drains, which can be found near margins of creeks with little or no creek banks.[2] Most are also near closed to nearly closed canopies.[3]
Species of conservation concern
The bayhead swamps has around 20 different animal species which are considered to be endangered.[3]
| Species of Conservation Concern |
|---|
| Southern Dusky Salamander |
| Gulf Coast Mud Salamander |
| American Woodcock |
| Yellow-billed Cuckoo |
| Wood Thrush |
| Yellow-throated Vireo |
| Northern Parula |
| Prothonotary Warbler |
| Swainson's Warbler |
| Kentucky Warbler |
| Hooded Warbler |
| Painted Bunting |
| Rusty Blackbird |
| Orchard Oriole |
| Pepper and Salt Skipper |
| Falcate Orangetip |
| Harvester |
| Southeastern Shrew |
| Southeastern Myotis |
| Long-tailed Weasel |
References
- ↑ Fiona Sunquist; Mel Sunquist; Les Beletsky (2008). Florida. Interlink Books. p. 19. ISBN 1566566517.
- 1 2 Natural Communities of Louisiana. "Bayhead Swamp/Forested Seep". Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.
- 1 2 "Bayhead Swamp/Forested Seep" (PDF). Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. Retrieved March 6, 2017.