In our increasingly urban world, birds, toads and
other wildlife are hard-pressed to find adequate sources
of food, water, and shelter. Your garden or home
landscape can play a significant role in providing for
wildlife-simply follow these easy steps from the
American Nursery & Landscape Association (ANLA) to
create a rich and sustaining wildlife habitat.
Wildlife Tip #1:
Plant a wide variety of trees,
flowers, shrubs and grasses so birds and other animals
can feast on nuts, acorns, seeds and berries. Use
fertilizers and pesticides with care-they can be harmful
to birds and animals.
Wildlife Tip #2:
Provide water with bird baths or a
small trickling fountain that recycles the water it
uses. All creatures need a source of clean water for
drinking, and some, such as toads, frogs, and
dragonflies, live in water in the early stages of their
lives.
Wildlife Tip #3: Plant flowers, grasses, trees and
shrubs in varying heights and densities to provide a
safe place for wildlife to hide from predators. Choose
plants that grow well in your local climate, and
consider how much sun, wind and rain your lawn or garden
receives. Remember, the experts at your local garden
center will be happy to provide advice on plant
selection.
|