How to Provide for Wildlife in Your Own Backyard

With neighborhoods and urban sprawl creeping into the natural habitats of birds and other wildlife, it's more important than ever to provide cover, variety, food and water for these creatures. Landowners can provide a nurturing sanctuary for wild birds and other animals by following these steps:

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Plants and Trees
• Fruit, Seeds, Nuts and Acorns
• Water

1. 
   www.growingour community.com

   Wildlife need a place to hide from predators and harsh weather. You can help by planting plenty of trees, hedges, and low-lying plants. Planting evergreen trees in a group makes a great hiding place for birds. Use a few thorny plants to provide cover for small animals on the ground.

2. 
   home-and-garden.webshots.com

   Follow nature's example and include a lot of variety in your backyard space. Use many different plants and textures in your design. Nowhere in nature will you find a large stretch of perfectly manicured green lawn!

3. 
   leftofzen.com

   The easiest way to provide food for wildlife is to plant trees that yield a high food value. Plant fruit trees such as Cherries, Dogwoods, Plums and Apricots. Animals also like the seeds from Birches, Firs, Maples and Spruces. Black Walnuts, Chestnuts, Hickories and Oaks provide delicious nuts and acorns.

4. 
   www.laspilitas.com

   Finally, make sure there is a source of potable water for wildlife in your backyard. Whether it's a birth bath or dripping tap, you will be providing a dependable source of water that will help the animals and birds near your home thrive.

Tips & Warnings

• Add a bench or swing to your yard so you can enjoy the view. Providing a healthy habitat for birds and animals will attract many of these creatures for your entertainment!

Resources

• eHow Home and Garden Topic Guide
• Arbor Day Foundation

[gahazeleyes]

on 5/28/2009 Like it. There is something so peaceful about wildlife.

[xrayness]

on 5/26/2009 A great summer project for my kids...

[texasparky]

on 5/26/2009 Way to be! Have a heart for those wildlife critters. It was their backyard first.

[Psalmist4M]

on 5/21/2009 Great article. Very specific and detailed info. Thanks for the suggestions of creative ways to Provide for Wildlife in Your Own Backyard. We have a great area in our backyard and do a lot of what you have suggested. 5*s