How to Create a Wildlife Sanctuary

Wherever you live, if you have a backyard, a terrace or other outdoor space, you have the opportunity to create your own wildlife sanctuary. Creating a space that is inviting and friendly to local wildlife is not only good for the environment, but can also be educational and entertaining. Here are some tips for creating a backyard wildlife sanctuary.

Things You'll Need

• Outdoor space
• Flowering plants
• Bird feeders
• Water sources
• Bird houses and nest boxes

Instructions

1. Plant trees, shrubs, flowers and other greenery. Plants that provide a variety of food, such as nuts and berries, are a big draw to wildlife. Different kinds of plants will also attract insects which will, in turn, provide a source of food for birds and other animals.

2. Offer water. Water sources, such as bird baths, ponds and fountains, will attract many species of wildlife to your backyard sanctuary. Make sure your water sources have sloping sides and are shallow to reduce the risk of birds and other small animals falling in and drowning.

3. Provide shelter. Rock piles, shrubbery, tree cavities, bird houses and dead trees provide much needed shelter for birds and other wildlife. Covered spaces protect wildlife from the elements and predators and give them space to nest and raise their young.

4. Create adequate space. Animals can be territorial. Try to keep food sources, such as bird feeders, some distance away from each other so that the wildlife won't feel crowded or threatened.

Tips & Warnings

• Remember that the key to creating a backyard wildlife sanctuary is to meet the basic needs of food, water, shelter and space.

• Keep your cats indoors. Cats have natural predatory instincts and can be a danger to birds and other wildlife.

• Avoid the use of pesticides. Pesticides can present dangers to wildlife and humans. Let the wildlife you attract perform a natural form of pest control.