Description

The shrub grassland ecosystem occurs in widely separated segments across most of the eastern half of the state in high-elevation valleys and along non-forested slopes. The junipers and sagebrushes that characterize these generally dry slopes only make up 8 percent of Montana’s land. They are interspersed with low cover grasslands and offer a unique transitional area habitat that supports many of Montana’s species of greatest conservation need. Over half of this limited ecosystem is privately owned.

Fish & Wildlife

The shrub grassland is home to a variety of wildlife species such as mule deer, western meadowlarks, and prairie rattlesnakes. The sagebrush found here is a necessary part of the habitats for sage grouse, common sagebrush lizard, sage thrasher, and pygmy rabbit.

Vegetation

Plants of this ecosystem are dominated by sagebrush – giant and silver sage – and grasses. Sagebrush have specialized leaves that prevent evaporation and a root structure that spreads out to collect as much available moisture as possible.