Turning your backyard into a wildlife-friendly environment is a great way to contribute to local ecosystems while you get to enjoy the beauty and vitality of nature. The good news is that it is not difficult or expensive to run a stretch of lawn into a place that attracts local wildlife. Here are some easy ways to make your outdoor space more appealing to birds, butterflies, bees, and other wildlife.

Go Native

Keep it local. One of the best ways to attract wildlife is by using plants native to your area. Not only are they better adapted to the local climate and soil, making them easier to maintain, but they also provide the specific food and habitat local wildlife prefers.

Mix it Up

Diversity is key to a thriving wildlife garden. Mix it up with a variety of trees, shrubs, flowers, and grasses. Layer it with ground cover, shrubs, and taller trees to mimic a natural environment that will support a wider range of species.

Water World

Water is key. Add a birdbath, pond, or small water feature to attract birds, amphibians, and mammals. Just make sure to keep the water clean and consider adding a shallow area or ramp to help smaller creatures access. A drip or mist system is particularly attractive to birds and butterflies.

Keep it Clean

Chemicals can be harmful to wildlife, particularly pollinators like bees and butterflies. Choose natural pest control methods such as introducing beneficial insects, using neem oil, or planting pest-resistant varieties.

Provide Housing

Bird feeders and houses can attract a variety of bird species to your backyard. Use different types of feeders (tubes, hoppers, and platforms are some common choices) and a mix of seeds to cater to different birds. Place feeders near cover to provide safety from predators.

Wildlife needs places to hide from predators and to raise their young. Dense shrubs, brush piles, and rock walls provide these safe havens. Leave some dead wood and leaf litter, which are natural habitats for many insects and microorganisms.

Limit Lawn Space

Lawns are a wildlife desert. Consider reducing your lawn space by cutting out areas for native plants, wildflowers, or vegetable gardens. An even easier method is to leave a portion of your lawn unmowed to provide habitat for insects and small animals.

Practice Sustainable Gardening

Composting yard waste and kitchen scraps enriches the soil naturally, reducing the need for chemical fertilizers. Collecting rainwater in barrels can provide an eco-friendly water source for your garden.

Share the Wealth

Participate in local wildlife monitoring programs that provide valuable data on local biodiversity as this will also help you learn more about the species visiting your backyard.