There are a number of garden wildlife species that are in decline as a result of continued town expansions and shrinking natural habitats due to human interference. Some of the species most affected by these changes include hedgehogs, blackbirds, foxes, frogs, toads, and insects like bees. It’s not just continual building that is affecting these species, but modern-day gardening techniques, too.
It’s not uncommon to find gardens with artificial lawns, extended patios, and very little plant life. Instead, many homeowners opt for the lowest maintenance solutions which often include using insecticides and harmful chemicals to deter ‘pests’. Unfortunately, this is having an adverse effect on many vital garden dwellers which is causing issues in the wider eco-system.
With trends still going in a negative direction, it’s down to homeowners to do all they can to attract wildlife to their gardens. If you’re looking to do your part and don’t mind nature’s own creatures sharing your outdoor space with you, here are a number of ways you can attract them to your garden.
Be More Free
There’s a tendency for people to think that their gardens have to be perfectly refined, with not so much as a single stray leaf daring to creep over the perfectly primed border. This might look nice and uniform, but it doesn’t do much in the way of attracting wildlife. You don’t need to let your entire garden grow into an unruly jungle, but if you have one corner or small area that you can let things go a bit wild in, do. It’s more natural and will encourage small insects and animals to roam. It will also provide a bit of shelter for them, too.
Provide a House
With so much clearance of woodlands and natural space, animals like hedgehogs have reduced resources and places to shelter. They will naturally gravitate towards areas where they are able to find materials to use as a home, so it stands to reason that if you provide animal homes, e.g. birdhouses, hedgehog houses, and insect towers, wildlife will surely make its way to your garden.
You can buy pre-made wildlife houses for your garden, or you can easily make them yourself following online DIY tutorials. In terms of placement, it’s a good idea to put your animal house in the rough patch of the garden. If you have a birdhouse, against a fence is a good placement, or in a tree.
Leave Food Out
Every animal is appreciative of an easy meal, so if you want to attract wildlife to your outdoor space, consider leaving out some tasty snacks. For wild birds, consider leaving out sunflower seeds, currants, oats and mealworms. Do take note of placement, though. If you live in a mobile home and don’t have masses of outdoor space, don’t be tempted to scatter loose foods on your roof. The last thing you want is birds on your mobile home roof. If you don’t have a lot of outdoor space, consider buying a freestanding instead.
If you want to attract hedgehogs, the best things to offer include cat or dog food, either dry or meaty. There are a number of hedgehog biscuits on the market that you can buy too. Whatever food you opt for, put it in a shallow-sided bowl.
Be mindful when putting food out, especially if you have other pets. The last thing you want is to have your dog or cat eat something that might be harmful to them. If you do have pets, consider raised feeding tables so that they can’t get to the food.
Try these three tips at Live Enhanced and you should hopefully find your garden is brimming with wildlife this summer season!