As October marks the start of the planting season, it's the perfect time to revisit the essentials of creating a thriving wildlife habitat. Whether you're starting fresh or adding to an existing space, remember that a successful habitat comes down to four key components: food, water, shelter, and space.
Food:
It might seem as simple as tossing out some birdseed, and that's a good start. However, it's important to offer a balance of natural food sources like plants, insects, and lizards for birds to thrive. While many adult birds feed on seeds and berries, baby birds rely heavily on insects for survival. Removing insects from the environment—whether by not providing habitat or by using pesticides—means there won’t be enough food for young birds to thrive. Butterflies and native bees also benefit from a variety of flower shapes and colors for nectar. If you supplement with seeds or feeders, be sure to provide native plants such as grasses, flowers, and berries as well.
Water:
This is often the most overlooked component, but it doesn’t require a large pond. Butterflies, for example, drink from shallow puddles in sand. You can create a small basin and use a drip emitter that fills when your irrigation runs. Birdbaths work for more than just birds, and natural mulch helps retain moisture for lizards and insects. Year-round access to water for drinking and bathing is crucial for all wildlife.
Shelter:
Wildlife needs protection from the weather, safe spaces to roost, and areas to raise their young. For insects, this can be as simple as leaf litter—remember, insects are essential to supporting other wildlife. For larger creatures, shelter can come from grasses, shrubs, and trees. Natural pruning is key here. A Texas Ranger pruned into a geometric shape might look neat, but it won't provide much shelter or food. Rock piles can blend into the landscape and serve as excellent shelters for various species.
Space (or Cover):
Space means providing areas where wildlife can forage, seek cover from predators, protect their young, and access a variety of conditions. Even small yards can offer this diversity. A yard with only cacti and gravel offers little in terms of habitat, but by adding nectar plants, shrubs, or trees, you create a welcoming environment for wildlife.
As you prepare your garden this season, consider how these elements can work together to support local wildlife. By choosing the right plants and incorporating natural materials, you’ll provide food and shelter while also creating a beautiful, balanced space that wildlife will be drawn to throughout the year.
