Benefits of a Wildlife Garden

If you’ve ever been lucky enough to see wildlife in your own backyard, you probably appreciate the benefits of a wildlife garden. Wildflowers and plants attract butterflies and birds, and a bird feeder is a perfect place for a colony of songbirds to practice their wings. While many people may think that these creatures are nuisances, studies have shown that gardens of wild plants and flowers help to reduce pest incidences.

1. Benefits of Wildflowers and Shrubs

Wildflowers and shrubs are not only attractive and soothing to the eye, but they attract bees and butterflies as well. Many species are pollinated by bees. And as a result, less land is required for crop production, which translates to a drop in prices for consumers. One benefit of a wildlife garden is providing habitat for various species. While some species are restricted by certain environments, like the Bald Cypress in the Evergreen National Forest, other plants can spread throughout landscapes without much competition. In turn, this provides more room for butterflies and birds to take up residence.

2. Attracts Beneficial Insects

One of the greatest benefits of a garden is attracting beneficial insects to it. Beneficial insects are what really keep forests healthy and allow plants and crops to flourish. By providing bees and other insects to your garden, you are helping to maintain a healthy environment where different kinds of life can take root.

3. Benefits for Humans and Animals

While many people assume that the only benefits of a wildlife garden are aesthetic ones, research has shown that there are many benefits for both humans and animals. In fact, a study was conducted that found that a reduction in stress, an improved immune system, lower incidence of depression, and lower instances of divorce were all benefits of wildlife gardening. In addition, birds enjoy playing in a wildlife garden. They find the sounds of a flowing stream or the chirping of a tree hollow to be soothing, calming and restful.

4. Shelter for Various Insects and Pests

One important benefit of a wildlife garden is providing shelter for various types of insects and pests. A variety of pests, including arthropods, mites, ticks, mosquitoes, and spiders, can all take up residence in a garden. In fact, some species are so common that you might not even know they’re there. And some species may actually be beneficial to your health! You can attract beneficial bugs by building nesting boxes and providing them with additional hiding areas.

5. Provides Ideal Habitat

A wildlife garden provides an ideal habitat for birds, butterflies, and other natural wildlife. Midge pre-mature egg layers are a great attraction to birds. Similarly, butterflies enjoy the sweet scent of nectar flowers, while birds enjoy the sugary fruits of acacia gum trees. And don’t forget, the smell of a meadow will fill you with happy memories of childhood!

6. Attracts Native Birds and Insects Species

Another benefit of a local wildlife garden is that it can attract many native species of birds and insects that would otherwise not find your area. The more different species of birds and insects there are in your area, the more likely they will be to visit your new habitat. Many insects can also be repelled by certain kinds of plants, which means that if you plant some flowers or plants, your garden will have fewer insects and fewer repellents needed. Your local wildlife rehabilitation facility should be able to assist you in determining which insects you should keep and which you should exclude from your garden.

7. Ways to Attract Wildlife

If you are looking for ways to attract more local wildlife to your garden, there are many things you can do. Planting ornamental grasses, flowers, and bushes that attract particular species of insects is one way to start. You can also build bird houses or attract species of birds that are native to your area by purchasing birding supplies and birdfeeders. These items can help bring specific kinds of birds to your wildlife garden, and help ensure that your garden has a better chance of attracting beneficial insects.

8. Conclusion

In conclusion, creating wildlife gardens can have many benefits for you and your family. You can provide an important habitat for local wildlife, attract more birds and insects, and reduce your home’s heating costs by using natural pest control techniques. You can also improve your landscape and backyard’s value by creating one-of-a-kind sculptures or decorative gardens that attract attention and add value to your home.