Marion Barnes, Senior County Extension Agent – Clemson University
Wildlife viewing is becoming a very popular activity among homeowners and wildlife enthusiasts. According to the US Fish & Wildlife Service 2022 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting & Wildlife-Associated Recreation more than 148 million U.S. residents, 57% of the U.S. population 16 years old and older participated in wildlife-watching activities. Of all the wildlife in the U.S. birds, were the greatest focus of wildlife viewers in 2022. Approximately 96 million people observed birds around their homes and on trips in 2022. There are many reasons for wanting to attract wildlife to our yards, including viewing, aesthetics, relaxation, “connecting with nature” or enjoying the antics or diversions that wildlife provide. I know I enjoy watching fox squirrels raid my wife’s bird feeders and the efforts those “acrobats” go to securing a mouth full of sunflower seed. It’s better that going to the circus!
When creating or improving wildlife habitat around your home there are a few questions to consider. Why do you want backyard habitat? Are there particular wildlife species you want to attract? Your answers will help determine the type of habitat you will need. Successfully attracting backyard wildlife generally involved the “three D’s”: diversity, design, and diligence.
Diversity
Variety is the key to establishing good wildlife habitat, since many wildlife species rely on diversity of habitat to survive. The more variety your yard can provide in a small area the more wildlife you can expect to attract and support. A diversified wildlife habitat includes food, water, shelter and nesting areas.
Food sources- Is there enough year-round food sources to attract the wildlife species you are targeting? Are there nectar from flowers, fruits and nuts from trees and shrubs and seed from plants that grow in your yard? Nectar plants like zinnias, or butterfly bush attract butterflies and hummingbirds. Clover patches provide food for rabbits and many of the “weed” plant species attract insects
Artificial feeders – For birds, the types of feeders and seeds you provide will attract certain species. Oil type sunflower seed attract cardinals, chickadees, and even woodpeckers. Fruits such as raisins, grapes, orange halves and apples attract mockingbirds, catbirds, and orioles. Suet and mealworms feeders attract woodpeckers and bluebirds. Corn feeders attract deer and squirrels, who may also prefer to eat your landscape plants or raid bird feeders!
Water sources- Water is necessary for drinking and bathing for many wildlife species. Smaller birds need a water depth of ½ in. while larger birds can use 1 to 2 in. depth. Carefully consider the placement of feeders and waterers so that there is enough space to see approaching predators, yet escape cover is available nearby. Keep water sources from freezing since wildlife need water during the cold months also.
Cover or shelter- Wildlife need shelter for protection from, adverse weather conditions and predators. Dense evergreens, large broadleaved shrubs and trees provide protective cover for many species of birds and mammals. For example: mockingbirds build nest in shrubs, barn swallows use barns and outbuildings as places to construct their mud nests. You can increase you nesting habitat with bird houses for species like bluebirds, bats or owls. Make sure the artificial nesting boxes are constructed to the specifications and dimensions for the species of interests and are placed in the proper location for the species you are attracting.
Design
Properly designing your yard will benefit the wildlife as well as aid in viewing opportunities. Design your yard to create views for seeing wildlife near windows and decks. Place feeders and nesting boxes in locations that are visible from your home. Create natural effects by planting multiple species of plants. Vary heights of vegetation, with taller shrubs and trees placed around the border of your yard. Curved borders provide more “edge” effect than straight borders.
Diligence
Good wildlife habitat requires effort and maintenance. Some plantings may die and need replanting. Weeding may be necessary in some cases to keep the desired plant species. Bird houses will need to be cleaned, and water needs to be periodically drained and containers sanitized. So, if you want to create a good wildlife habitat in your backyard, don’t forget the “three D’s”.
Information for this article was taken in part from Creating Backyard Habitat in Arkansas by University of Arkansas Extension Service
We hope you find the information in this newsletter useful. For more information on wildlife food plots and managing your property for wildlife contact your local Clemson Extension Office.
