Having a garden is a wonderful privilege for any renter or homeowner. Any kind of green space offers a myriad of health benefits, including reduced stress, morbidity, and mortality. Why not enhance your green space at home by welcoming garden wildlife?

During the lockdowns of COVID-19, that world’s wildlife came out of hiding to enjoy the peace and quiet. Dolphins played in the formerly hectic waterways of Istanbul, wild boars roamed the streets of Israel with their piglets, and pink flamingos relaxed on the empty shorelines of Albania.

Although the lockdowns have ended, you can still offer an oasis for these animals. 

To find out how, check out the guide below.

Offer Snacks

Anyone who lives in an area with raccoons or bears knows that food attracts wildlife. The important thing is that it’s the right kind of food that won’t harm the animals. 

Bird feeders are a common way to offer snacks and attract local birds to your garden. Look for a squirrel-proof bird feeder, unless your goal is to attract squirrels. You can find some excellent models at birdinformer.com.

Provide Water

Another way to attract local birds is to place a birdbath in your garden. It will provide a relaxing oasis away from predators. It can also be a lifeline during bouts of extreme weather. 

If keeping to a budget or dealing with limited space, even a small dish will do. On the other end of the spectrum, a full-size pond will appeal to more than just birds — even amphibians and turtles may be drawn to it.

Choose Native Flora

Although exotic plants can be beautiful, they’re not the best way to attract local wildlife. They won’t be familiar with them and they could even be harmful. Instead, ask a local garden center about the local flora available to you.

Build a Nesting Box

Another way to attract wildlife is to offer a readymade shelter. This will appeal to the animals as it provides easy protection from predators or the elements. 

These shelters are easy to purchase, but they also make a great DIY craft project. It would be perfect for children to help build and design. 

Plant a Tree or Shrub

Both trees and shrubs draw in a diverse population of wildlife. Everything from birds to insects to badgers may make their home in a tree or feed from it. 

The type of animal that visits the garden will depend on the type of tree. If there’s limited space, you can try a smaller tree like dogwood.

Fruit trees even have the added benefit of offering extra food for humans as well. 

Supporting Garden Wildlife

Attracting garden wildlife is a great way to enhance the dynamics of your green space.

Just be careful to not put out anything that could be harmful to the animals.

For more helpful guides like this one, take a moment to browse our other articles.