Habitat

We have always had an interest in watching wildlife, so creating a backyard habitat seemed like the natural thing to do. Soon after we built our dream house, we realized that building a backyard habitat was a necessity. This new city subdivision was once the home of many deer, wild turkeys, birds and small mammals. As more and more homes were built and the nearby woods rapidly disappearing, we became passionate about giving back to nature some of what our home had taken away. We can not do much for the deer and wild turkeys but we can certainly provide a habitat for small wildlife, birds, butterflies and insects. On less than 1/3 acre, we have made a home for a variety of small wildlife. We have found that if you provide the four basic elements for survival, they will come. The following are pictures of some of the things we have done to provide the basic elements of Food, Cover, Water and Places to Raise Young.

Food


The widest variety of natural food is always the best. The birds have found these seeds from summer plants a good source of food in the winter. Since I want to provide food and shelter for wildlife, I don't remove spent flowers at the end of the summer season. These seeds are from Black-eyed Susans.	Shrubs and trees produce foods such as nuts, seeds and berries. A good rule is to choose native plants that will grow easily in your climate. Check your local nursery for information on what plants do well in your climate. National Audubon Society, The Bird Garden by Stephen W. Kress is a good source and guide for determining what type of plants to add to your gardens.

While plants are maturing, natural food sources can be supplemented by bird feeders. A wide variety of feeders at different heights will attract birds with different feeding patterns. I have placed some of my feeders close to the house for easy viewing and on the outskirts for the shy little ones. I use a combination of platform, tube, nectar and suet feeders.

Regular care of the feeding stations are necessary to prevent the spreading of disease. It is important to regularly remove molded or sodden seed and scrub the feeder with a germ-destroying cleanser. Rinse and let dry before adding seed.	Bird seeds and suet offer a food source during the lean winter months. I have found black sunflower seeds to be the best overall food source. Suet provides necessary fat and is eaten by many North American species.

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Backyard Wildlife Habitat