Cathy Isom fills us in on how to have a little bit of Heaven, or Haven, in your backyard. That’s coming up on This Land of Ours.
Backyard Wildlife Haven
It’s very possible to convert your outdoor space, no matter how big or small, into a simple wildlife-friendly garden. With urbanization slowly pushing animals out of their habitats, that’s where we can help provide some refuge for struggling wildlife. When planning your outdoor haven, stay away from exotic plants and instead use native plants like milkweed that will attract Monarch butterflies. Provide shelter to protect from the elements and prey, as well as a safe place for animals to raise their young. Include trees, shrubs, grasses, and flowers of varying heights will help attract a variety of wildlife, including small mammals, birds, butterflies, and bees. Provide a water source such as birdbaths and shallow containers. Or, you can install a small waterfall or pond with a cascading water feature. Always use eco-friendly methods to care for your grade and never chemical pesticides or fertilizers, which can harm wildlife and contaminate groundwater.