Barren Meadows
An alvar is an open area located over a
limestone base. Although usually
an alvar isn't much to look at, it provides a unique habitat. An alvar is
poorly drained so it is typically wet in the spring but it becomes very
hot and dry later in the season. Some plants and animals have specialized
to allow them to exploit this harsh habitat.
The thin soils and extreme conditions result in limited tree growth.
Grassy plants more commonly found further north or in the prairies persist in these areas.
Fires are not uncommon.
Some birds which prefer this habitat are:
- Loggerhead Shrike
- Upland Sandpiper
- Brown Thrasher
Where to find Alvars
In North America, alvars are only found in the Great Lakes basin.
Two-thirds are found in Ontario. Some examples are:
Alvars are also found on the Baltic Sea coasts of Scandinavia.
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