With summertime approaching, many homeowners will be reaching for the binoculars to see what wildlife can be spotted in their very own back garden. Whether you love spotting birds, animals or even insects, the arrival of these visitors can be an exciting sight – especially for children – and turn a good garden into a great one.
If you’re unsure of the best ways to encourage furry or feathered neighbours round to your property, then don’t worry, it’s easier than you think. There’s a number of landscaping additions or improvements to that can really help you out.
Add a water feature
Water features come in all shapes and sizes, and all have their benefits. A fountain or cascading water feature may double up as a bird bath, enticing various garden birds to drop by for a splash around. If you opt for a pond, or even a stream or lake (depending on your garden size) you can expect an even larger and more varied ecosystem. Purchasing fish for a fish pond is one guaranteed way to see wildlife, but you may also notice ponds and lakes encouraging the arrival of frogs and newts, as well as aquatic insects such as dragonflies and damselflies.
Install new plantlife
Another surefire way to attract wildlife is to increase the amount of plants, flowers and vegetation within your garden. More flowers will increase your chances of seeing bees, butterflies and other insects, which in turn will attract more birds. Planting trees, or introducing a sapling is another way to attract birds, not to mention squirrels too. Leafy and bushy areas are ideal for small animals such as hedgehogs, although if you’re looking to attract hedgehogs it’s best to designate a quiet area away from noise. A small amount of canned pet food and a dish of water is also ideal (but avoid bread, milk, or anything fishy) when encouraging return hedgehog visits.
Build a bird feeder or bird box
Bird feeders really bring a garden to life, and can be decorative enough before any avian visitors arrive. If you don’t like the idea of a dedicated bird feeder such as a pole or table, you can alternatively hang a small feeder from a hanging basket fixture, or the branches of a tree if you have one. Fill with seeds and nuts, and you may even attract a squirrel too. If you’re happy for birds to make your garden their permanent home, then you can also install a birdbox. Ensure the box is between two and four meters high on a wall or tree, away from direct sunlight, and has a clear flight path, and you’ll be welcoming starlings, sparrows or tits before you know it.
Start a compost heap
There are multiple benefits to having a compost heap in your garden. Firstly, it’s great for the environment, letting you recycle everyday items such as fruit and vegetable waste, teabags, garden prunings, coffee granules, and soft cardboard or paper. Secondly, compost heaps are one of the best ways to attract wildlife. Within a good sized compost heap or bin, there will be thousands of insects such as worms, woodlice, and beetles munching their way through the contents. If creepy crawlies aren’t the ideal wildlife you’re looking for, just remember that when you heap the rich contents on your plantlife, these bugs will attract the birds and hedgehogs who eat them, while the compost will help feed and nurture your garden greenery too.
If you’re not sure where to start when turning your garden into a wildlife haven, here at Groby Landscapes we’re ready to help. From installing water features, to adding plantlife, to creating timberwork, we cover all aspects of landscaping, with a professional and reliable service. To discuss your requirements, or request a no-obligation quote, be sure to get in touch today.
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