You can enhance your backyard while at the same time contribute to local wildlife conservation by developing your own backyard wildlife habitat. Here’s how:
1. Cultivate plants that offer a food source for wildlife: seeds, fruits, nuts and berries.
2. Provide ample feeder space and use feeders that don’t have sharp points or edges.
3. Create a pond or use a birdbath as a source of water for wildlife.
4. Provide shelter for wildlife with a birdhouse, ornamental grasses, a rock pile or a hollow log.
5. Keep bird feeders, nest boxes and birdbaths clean.
6. Place food and water near each other.
7. Use organic mulches, fertilizers and amendments.
8. Use a natural method of pest control.
9. Place a mobile of dead branches or pinecones near windows to protect songbirds from flying into them.
10. Install a bench or chair for people to sit and view the action.
