Did you know your backyard is home to creatures protected by New Jersey law? Many animals that might seem like pests or nuisances actually play important roles in our local ecosystem.
Removing these protected species can result in hefty fines or even criminal charges, so it’s crucial to know which critters you need to leave alone.
1. Eastern Box Turtles
Finding one of these colorful, dome-shelled reptiles in your garden might be a rare treat! Eastern box turtles are a species of special concern in New Jersey, facing population declines due to habitat loss and road mortality.
These slow-moving creatures can live over 100 years in the wild and often return to the same nesting areas year after year. If you spot one crossing your yard, you’re welcome to help it safely across, but never relocate it far from where you found it.
2. Barred Owls
With their distinctive “who-cooks-for-you” hooting call, barred owls bring natural pest control to your property. These magnificent birds help keep rodent populations in check while adding a touch of wild majesty to suburban neighborhoods.
Protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act, disturbing these owls or their nests is strictly prohibited. Even if they build a nest close to your home, you must leave them be. Consider yourself lucky – many birdwatchers would love to have these nocturnal hunters as neighbors!
3. Northern Copperhead Snakes
Despite their venomous reputation, northern copperheads are shy creatures that prefer to avoid human contact. Recognizable by their coppery-red heads and hourglass-patterned bodies, these snakes primarily eat mice and other small mammals.
While it’s natural to feel concerned about venomous snakes, killing copperheads is illegal in New Jersey. They’re a vital part of the ecosystem and rarely bite unless directly threatened. If one appears in your yard, call a licensed wildlife professional who can safely relocate it.
4. Bog Turtles
No bigger than the palm of your hand, the critically endangered bog turtle is North America’s smallest turtle species. With distinctive orange patches on either side of their head, these rare reptiles are a special treasure if found in your wet yard areas.
Federal and state laws strictly protect bog turtles, making it illegal to touch, disturb, or remove them. If you’re lucky enough to spot one on your property, contact the NJ Division of Fish and Wildlife immediately – your yard might contain critical habitat for these vanishing creatures.
5. Red-Tailed Hawks
The iconic screech you hear in movies actually belongs to these majestic birds! Red-tailed hawks are powerful predators that help control rabbit, squirrel, and rodent populations in suburban areas. Like all raptors, these hawks are federally protected.
Their nests, eggs, and young cannot be disturbed, even if built on your property. The good news? Having these natural pest controllers around means fewer rodents damaging your garden and home. Many homeowners consider red-tailed hawks welcome allies in yard maintenance.
6. Spotted Salamanders
During spring rains, you might spot these striking black amphibians with bright yellow spots making their way to breeding ponds. Spotted salamanders spend most of their lives hidden underground, making a sighting truly special.
As indicator species, their presence suggests your yard has healthy soil and low pollution levels. New Jersey law protects these secretive creatures from collection or harm. If you find one during garden work, simply replace any disturbed leaf litter or logs and leave it be.
7. Eastern Bluebirds
With their brilliant blue feathers and rusty-orange breasts, eastern bluebirds bring a splash of color to New Jersey yards. Once declining due to habitat loss, these beloved songbirds have made a comeback thanks to conservation efforts.
Federal law protects bluebirds, their nests, and eggs from disturbance. Many homeowners actually invite these insect-eaters by installing nesting boxes. If bluebirds choose your yard for nesting, consider it a compliment – they prefer clean, well-maintained spaces with plenty of natural food sources.
8. Wood Frogs
Masters of winter survival, wood frogs can actually freeze solid during cold months and thaw back to life in spring! These remarkable amphibians wear a distinctive dark mask across their eyes, making them look like tiny bandits.
Protected under New Jersey’s amphibian conservation laws, wood frogs play crucial roles in forest ecosystems. They breed explosively in temporary spring pools, sometimes right in suburban yards. Their chorus of duck-like calls announces spring’s arrival, providing a free seasonal concert for lucky homeowners.
9. Great Blue Herons
Standing nearly four feet tall, great blue herons create quite a spectacle when they visit backyard ponds! These prehistoric-looking birds might appear for a fish dinner if you have water features on your property. Federal laws protect these magnificent wading birds year-round.
While they might occasionally snack on ornamental fish, their presence indicates healthy local waterways. Rather than chase them away, consider installing a decoy heron – real herons are territorial and may avoid areas where they think another heron has claimed territory.
10. Little Brown Bats
Facing catastrophic population declines from white-nose syndrome, little brown bats now receive special protection in New Jersey. A single bat can devour thousands of mosquitoes nightly – nature’s most effective pest control! If bats roost in your yard’s trees or structures, removing them requires special permits and professional assistance.
Summer evictions are prohibited when mother bats are raising pups. Instead of viewing them as scary, appreciate these flying mammals for their mosquito-eating services – they’re working hard to make your summer evenings more comfortable.
11. Monarch Butterflies
Recently added to the endangered species list, monarch butterflies need all the protection they can get. Their amazing multi-generation migration between Mexico and the northern United States is one of nature’s greatest journeys. Removing monarchs or destroying their caterpillars, chrysalises, or eggs is now prohibited.
Many New Jersey homeowners actively support these orange-and-black beauties by planting milkweed – the only plant monarch caterpillars can eat. Creating a monarch waystation in your yard helps ensure future generations will enjoy these remarkable insects.