Wildlife comes in various forms: insects, invertebrates, birds and mammals and each, in its own way, is dependent on the environment for its survival. Even in the most concrete surrounded inner-city garden it is possible to create conditions that will help attract wildlife.
The first thing to remember is that most forms of wildlife prefer rather more unkempt surroundings rather than a totally neat and tidy patch. If possible, leave an area of your garden wild – don’t cut the grass more than a couple of times a year, leave some nettles to attract butterflies and other insects, allow plants to die back to expose the seeds. If branches have fallen from trees, leave some of them to rot down on the ground.
Each of these acts will encourage insects, birds and mammals to visit and even colonise the area and begin to build a natural food chain.
Garden ponds are an excellent way to stimulate insect life and larger birds and mammals will drink from the water. Remember that an uncovered pond, with sloping shallows around the edge, and full of darting, brightly coloured fish may well attract the attention of the heron. It will be its equivalent of fresh, fast food.
Feeding birds and animals is an excellent way to attract them but there can be unwanted consequences. Grey squirrels are not native to Britain. Although their antics on bird feeders can be fun to watch they do damage trees and attack the nests of songbirds. Too much unprotected feed that is left overnight on the ground or bird table can attract rats and other less desirable visitors.
If you do have a bird table and a birdbath, they and the nut feeders need to be kept clean to help avoid the spread of virus infections among the birds. And remember, once you start feeding you should continue because the avian visitors will begin to depend on the source, particularly at nesting times and when feeding young.
Most pet shops sell a variety of bird feeders – some of which are squirrel proof. They also sell various specific foods designed to attract different types of garden bird.
We are currently in the midst of a population reduction among hedgehogs. This may be cyclical or caused by some other, as yet, undetermined reason. You can purchase hedgehog hides and food from pet shops but do carefully follow the instruction as to where to position them. If you have a bonfire awaiting a dry day, do check the base before lighting to see if hedgehogs have made a home there among the drying material.
February and March are perfect for putting up bird nest boxes. Most people will want to attract Blue Tits or Great Tits. These species prefer their homes to have easy access, not secreted in vegetation. There are three things to consider - make sure a cat cannot get close to the box - try to avoid a location where the entrance hole faces prevailing wet weather - boxes in very sunny positions can get too hot.
Garden planning is another important key to attracting birds. Flowers and shrubs rich in seeds and nectar will be a magnet for some species. If you have a bare wall or shed in your garden, cover it with climbers to provide roosting and nesting sites. Native British plants and trees are naturally more beneficial to birds, mammals and insects.
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