Support Your Local Wildlife with an Inviting Backyard Habitat
Posted by Jim Navary | Filed under Home & Family
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 plants you use to provide food and cover will play a large part in determining the specific wildlife species that might be attracted to your backyard. Adding nesting boxes, feeders, and watering sites, such as fountains and garden ponds, can greatly improve the habitat.
Planning is an important step in providing an attractive and productive wildlife habitat. Keep in mind that you have both a horizontal area to work with (the size of your yard) as well as a vertical area that stretches from the ground to the treetops. The vertical area is composed of four distinct zones: — 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 ground covers, and — the basement where a variety of organisms exist in the soil. Different wildlife species favor each of these zones, so a wide range of habitats can be provided on even a small piece of land.
Of course, trees, shrubs and flowers are the backbone of any landscaping design and are important for wildlife shelter. Many tree and shrub species are excellent sources of food for wildlife. Proper selection of plant material will meet both the aesthetic needs of the homeowner and the food and shelter needs of wildlife. Don’t forget, you are also an important part of the habitat!
Native and non-native plants Native plants are more helpful to a wildlife habitat than non-native exotic plants. They generally require less fertilizer, less water, and less effort in pest control. Native plants are especially important to native wildlife. Pollinators, such as birds, bees and other beneficial insects may have co-evolved with a particular native plant species. Pollinators often depend upon a certain type of flower as a food source, 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 habitat you may want to consider including garden water fountains or garden waterfallsto make your backyard more appealing for you and your family in addition to your local wildlife.
Tags: animal habitat, backyard wildlife, bird watching, environment, gardening, Home & Family, homeowner tips, landscaping, natural habitat, nature, nature lover, outdoor projects, Wildlife, wildlife habitat
