Use Your Landscaping to Attract Wildlife

By B. E. Conrad

One of the best things about an attractive exterior landscape is the fact that such an inviting area not only attracts human visitors but lots of birds and animals as well. From small animals like chipmunks to larger animals like deer, an attractive front and back yard can provide an oasis for two legged and four legged visitors alike.

If your intention is to attract wildlife to your landscape, plan the landscape carefully to accomplish that goal. Different types of wildlife and birds prefer different environments, and a thorough knowledge of their preferences can bring the most beautiful birds and animals right to your door.

You should know, for instance, that various types of plants will attract different types of birds, butterflies and other wildlife. These animals will be drawn by the scents of different varieties of flowers, as well as by the nectar and other nutrients they provide.

If you wish to attract birds, you may want to incorporate an attractive bird feeder into the landscape. The presence of a bird feeder is a great way to attract birds, and various specialty feeders, like hummingbird feeders and finch feeders, can be used to bring the desired birds into your landscape.

Water is also an essential part of drawing birds and other wildlife to your landscape. All creatures need a steady supply of fresh, clean water in order to survive, and incorporating a water feature or two into your backyard oasis is a great way to encourage wildlife to set up shop there. From ponds and fountains to waterfalls and birdbaths, there are many attractive ways to incorporate this fresh clean water into your landscape. It is important, of course, to keep the water fresh and to prevent it from becoming stale or stagnant.

Shelter is another important consideration, and all wildlife will be looking for a safe and secure place to hide, nest and breed. Birds will appreciate the presence of a bird house or two, while other varieties of wildlife can find a home among the trees, shrubs and bushes that make up your landscape. No matter what type of shelter you provide, it is important that the wildlife drawn to your landscape feel safe, secure and protected from would be predators.

There is no doubt that wildlife provides an extra element of beauty and charm to any landscape. From the magnificent colors of butterflies to the delicate beauty of a hummingbird, it is easy to see why so many homeowners love to have part of the wild world settle in their backyards.