Wildscape 101

Backyard Habitats

Welcome wildlife to your yard and reclaim habitat lost to urbanization. Songbirds, butterflies, bees and other pollinators will benefit from a community connected through backyard habitats. Include food, water, shelter, and other basics, then enjoy watching the wildlife!

Attract wildlife with the plants they know best – native plants! Native plants and wildlife evolved together, so animals will easily recognize these familiar sources of food and shelter. Some nonnative, adapted plants also provide benefits, but make sure they are not invasive before you plant them.

Elements of a Wildscape

• Food –Provide food sources in all seasons by including a variety of plants that provide nectar, pollen, leaves, nuts, berries and seeds. Plant diversity is key to attracting more animals.
• Water – Provide a clean, reliable source of water, such as a bird bath or small pond.
• Shelter – Give cover for wildlife to hide, rest and nest in your garden. Dense plantings make animals feel safer, so clump plants together. Create corridors of dense plants for them to move about safely.
• Design Tip – Plant layers allow more species to live in the same area. Create vertical layers with flowers, grasses, shrubs and trees. Leave fallen branches and keep snags for habitat when it is safe to do so.
• Minimize Lawns – Lawns provide less food than other areas and expose animals to predators. Save on watering thirsty turf and instead expand your flowers beds and add more trees and shrubs to your property.