Harnett County Center
ATTRACTING WILDLIFE TO YOUR BACKYARD, 10/9/98
What could bring more pleasure to a garden than the presence of birds and other small animals. But visits from these wild creatures do not occur by chance. Animals have very specific needs. By providing for these needs, they are more likely to show up in the landscape.
WATER
This, of course, is the essential ingredient for life. Be sure to provide a water source in your landscape, either from a birdbath, garden pond, or other container. Make sure that there is always water available, even in the winter. Clean birdbaths frequently during summer months to prevent mosquitoes.
COVER
Small animals live in a dangerouse world. They have to avoid foxes, cats, dogs, cars, and small children. Therefore, they need good hiding places. Plant a variety of shrubs and trees, including some evergreens, where animals can escape to.
Consider cover when siting your birdbaths and feeders. Locate them fairly close to these hiding places so that birds have a quick escape route if the neighbors cat sneaks up. If space allows, brush piles also provide excellent cover for wildlife.
NESTING SITES
Again, variety is the key. By planting assorted types and sizes of trees and shrubs, you will address the nesting needs of various animals. Some like to nest high up in the canopy, others close to the ground.
If you decide to put up birdhouses, stress functionality over appearance. Consult a good birding book for information on what size house and entrance hole are suitable for which species.
Also consider habitat range. Bluebirds, for example, are quite territorial. In most yards, there is only enough space for a single bluebird box.
FOOD
Animals, of course, need a steady supply of food. Feeders work fine, but we can also provide food by planting the right plants. Berry and nut producers do the job nicely. There are many plants that provide food for wildlife, and which also make attractive additions to the landscape.
Good berry producers include hollies, grapevines, blueberries, junipers, nandina, dogwoods, and waxmyrtle. Once again, variety is desirable so that food will be available at various times of the year.
As a garden writer, I hesitate to say this, but overgrown weedy areas are highly desirable to wildlife. They provide good cover plus a variety of food plants. This is not, however, to be used as justification to your neighbor for failing to mow your yard for the last three months!
A variety of flowers and herbs is also desirable as they will attract many insects, another favorite food source.
I'm sure you've noticed, the word I have used most in this column is "variety." If you provide that, you will be blessed with many visitors.
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