Wildlife Sanctuary

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    Limit the Amount of Lawn:  Reduce the amount of lawn in low traffic areas such as corners of the yard.  Add diversity of plant species that will create shelter and food for many animal species.  Plant diversity attracts more wildlife species.

    Food:  Food should be provided in the form of plants that bear seed, fruit, foliage or flowers that you are willing to be consumed by birds, larval butterflies (caterpillars) or adult butterflies.  Berries, fleshy fruits, nuts and acorns are treats for wildlife.

    Sound of Running Water:  The sound of running water will attract wildlife to your yard.  This can take the form of a pond, creek or other body of fresh water.  A birdbath that captures rain water can suffice.  Dump and clean the container every few days and refill it with fresh clean water.

    Increase Vertical Layering:  Plant a variety of vegetation in different sizes and heights provides more cover and feeding opportunities for wildlife species. 

    Birds:  Birds are attracted to planted areas that include a tree canopy, smaller under-story trees and shrubs and grasses or flowers, particularly those that are allowed to go to seed on occasion.  Meadow grasses can be especially attractive to wildlife, adding a graceful feature to your landscape

    Butterflies:  A combination of both larval and nectar plants will attract a variety of butterflies to your yard.

    Caterpillars:  Caterpillars are the larval form of butterflies and moths.  Each species of butterfly lays its eggs on a preferred species of plant, which may differ from the adults preferred nectar source.  Caterpillars often strip larval plants of leaves.  If you want to attract butterflies to your yard, a certain level of damage should be tolerated.

    Snags:  Dead trees can be left in place if they do not create a hazard.  Birds use snags for perching, nesting and feeding.

    Manage Pets:  Pets that are allowed to harass wildlife will frustrate any efforts you make toward attracting wildlife.  This is especially true for house cats.

    Reduce Pesticide Use:  Pesticides used in the landscape will reduce insect populations, an important food source for birds.  Some chemicals also may poison mammals and birds that feed on affected insects.