Tall fescue commonly has been described as poor wildlife habitat because of its dense sod-forming structure and short growth compared with native grasses. The presence of the fungal endophyte in a large proportion of tall fescue stands also can negatively impact wildlife health and productivity (Coley et al., 1995). Alkaloids produced by the endophyte may reduce the prevalence of insect foods necessary for brood chicks (Muegge et al., 1991). Although all of these factors may be true for some avian and mammalian species, there are species that may benefit from tall fescue habitat. Wildlife primarily use grasslands for food and cover. Both mammalian and avian species make use of grasslands for these purposes.

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