Having wildlife in your backyard can make you feel like you’re having a Snow White moment. Suddenly coming across a flock of birds or a gentle squirrel can be quite the treat if you’re inclined toward nature and its critters. It happens more in areas like Tampa or Los Angeles, where animals are more likely to cross the fence from the bushes or trees into homes.
If your yard isn’t attracting any wildlife, a few tweaks to your layout can encourage more animals to flock to your property. But be sure to talk to a fence contractor to know which type of fencing will keep the pests or dangerous animals from your premises.
Pollinator Gardens
Bees, butterflies, and moths are species that look great in your backyard. Their role as pollinators also promotes growth among your plants. Native and non-native plants make great homes for these species.
Pollinator gardens require a constant change in foliage. Have flowering plants that thrive in different seasons and attract the species you’re aiming for. Shelter your plants from the elements; use gardening materials that would not harm the insects you’re trying to attract, and try to provide homes that would not harm your plants or your property.
Bats, Dragonflies, and Insect Feeders
If the only type of winged species you’re up to have are bees, butterflies, moths, and mammals, it’s best if you attract the types that devour harmful species. Bats and dragonflies are natural predators to mosquitoes, flies, ants, and termites.
Bat houses are easy to set up. Place the box to mimic a bat’s natural habitat, narrow and near confined spaces. Installing a pond with plenty of water plants will encourage dragonflies to lay eggs there.
Bird-friendly Homes
A natural tip for bird lovers is to put all food away from windows. Birds have their own expertise that they’re famous for. Spotting windows is not one of them. If you want birds around your property but not one splat across your windows, keep all bird-attracting paraphernalia in a safe distance away from your house to prevent them from flying into your home.
Different types of bird have varying nutritional requirements. Seed and nut eating birds will appreciate seed feeders, while those who feed on live insects may happily munch on nuisances among your foliage. Nectar, fruit, and berry-eating birds will share trees with butterflies and bees.
Dealing with Nuisance Species
Not every critter that crosses your property is friendly. A cute pair of rabbits may soon turn into a litter of bunnies, which in turn, can quickly become a nuisance and a menace to your plants. Having an elk or moose in your garage can also wildly alter your plans for the day.
Nuisance species can be identified through lists provided by state wildlife agencies and enthusiast sites. Non-poisonous repellents and intuitive fencing can discourage the appearance of invasive species. Feeds and other food and drink sources can be put out of reach of species that are not meant to feed on them. Contractors may help set up fences that can discourage dangerous or destructive animals from crossing into your property.
If handling wildlife of any form is beyond your capabilities, it’s best to call the experts. Wildlife wranglers and animal control services follow strict protocols when capturing wild animals in domestic areas. Professionals can keep these animals safe and your home safe. When dealing with animals, there’s no reason to be cruel. After all, a good neighbor does no harm to their fellows, regardless if they’re human or animal.
