No matter what size land you have, there's always a way to attract wildlife. Providing habitat for birds, bees, butterflies, and some of the not so popular with the public (but critical to ecological stability) animals like snakes and mice, is one of the most rewarding endeavors. But perhaps even more important, creating a haven for wildlife is a powerful activity which can play an essential role in stabilizing wildlife food supplies, ecological restoration, endangered species protection, and orchard production. Backyard habitat can save pollinators' lives, as well as the lives of migratory birds which may stop over on your property. It may even help to reverse the trends of development and global warming.
To create backyard habitat, begin by reflecting on how your yard provides for basic needs-water, shelter, and of course, food. Then evaluate what your property may be lacking and seek a remedy.
A simple bird bath will draw many birds to your yard. One that drips is particularly alluring, since the sound is irresistible to many species. When cleaning up after winter, consider keeping some piles of sticks and organic matter around. Nesting birds will be delighted to have the material for their nests, and quail will be relieved to have a place to hide. Put up nesting boxes for bluebirds, bats, and ducks. Be sure to provide protection from predators: keep cats inside the house; take precautions when mounting bluebird boxes to discourage predators; don't place bird baths near the ground. Consider keeping some grasses long to provide cover for the many animals who need it so desperately. It may take a while for wildlife to start feeling comfortable coming to your yard, but once they do, you'll find they're there to stay.
Providing food for wildlife is a great source of fun. Putting up bird feeders is, of course, an obvious way to provide food. Feeders are not necessary though, if you grow plants which have high wildlife value. Gardening with native plants is ideal, since wildlife species have co-evolved with local native plants. This is particularly true in California which has such a diversity of plant communities which have adapted to specific soils and climates. Natives also require less water, fertilizer, and pest control.
When buying native plants, botanical names are often helpful in ensuring you get the right plant. Some of the best native plants for attracting wildlife are Blackfruit Dogwood (Cornus sessilis), Big-Leaf Maple (Acer macrophyllum), Western Bleeding Heart (Dicentra formosa), California Wild Rose (Rosa californica), Cascara Sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana), Western Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana var. demissa), Sierra Currant (Ribes nevadense), Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus), California Wild Grape (Vitis californica), Western Serviceberry (Amelanchier alnifolia), Spice Bush (Calycanthus occidentalis), Brown Dogwood (Cornus glabata), Silver Bush Lupine (Lupinus albifrons), Holly-leaf Cherry (Prunus ilicifolia), California Fuchsia (Epilobium canum), and Mexican Elderberry (Sambucus mexicana).
Making your land a haven for wildlife could be one of the most important things you do. Get started on it today! It's such a positive way to make a contribution.
If you are interested in learning more about native plant gardening for wildlife, attend the California Native Plant Society's Plant Sale and Wildflower Show at Sierra College Rocklin on Saturday, May 4th (2002) from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.. Native plants beneficial for wildlife will be for sale and experts on gardening for wildlife and restoration will be available for questions. A spectacular wildflower show and identification tour, as well as bluebird boxes and recovery literature, are also highlights of this fun-filled annual event. Please call 530-878-9116 for further information.