Creating an Appealing Habitat for Wildlife in Your Backyard

A wildlife habitat consists of a combination of food, water, shelter, and space arranged to meet the needs of wildlife. All yards, no matter how large or small, can be landscaped to attract small animals, birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects. Trees, shrubs, and other plants can provide both shelter and food for your local wildlife.

The variety of wildlife species that will be attracted to your backyard depends upon the plants you use for food and cover. Nesting boxes, feeders, and watering sites, such as ponds and fountains, can be added to improve the habitat.

Planning is necessary for attractive and productive wildlife habitat. You have both a horizontal area to work with — the size of your lot — as well as a vertical area that stretches from your soil to the treetops. The vertical area is composed of the canopy formed by the tallest tree branches; understory vegetation consisting of smaller trees, shrubs, and vines; the floor which is often dominated by low-growing plants (grasses, flowers, etc.) and the basement where a wide range of organisms live in the soil. Different wildlife species live in each of these zones, so numerous habitats can be provided on a small piece of land.

Trees and shrubs are the backbone of any landscaping design and are just as important for wildlife. Many tree, shrub and flower species are great sources of food for your local wildlife. A well planned and thought out selection of plants can meet the aesthetic needs of the homeowner as well as the food and shelter needs of wildlife. Remember that YOU are also an integral part of the habitat!

A word about native vs exotic plants Native plants are better for the habitat than exotic plants, generally requiring less fertilizer and other additives, less water, and less effort in pest control. They are especially important to native wildlife, such as pollinators, that may have co-evolved with a particular native species. Pollinators often rely on a certain type of flower as a source of food, while the flower depends on the pollinator to transport its pollen to other flowers for reproduction.

When non-native plants are used, they can often upset the delicate balance of the local ecosystem. They may even out-compete native species to the point of crowding them out completely. Native animal species benefit more when these native plant communities are maintained, or are restored to their natural habitats, providing the best source of food.

When you begin developing your wildlife habitat you may want to consider installing garden water fountains or garden waterfallsto make your backyard habitat more inviting for you and your family in addition to your local wildlife.