Turning Your Yard Into a Habitat for

Wildlife

Developed by theVolusia County

Extension Service

Provide the Basics and They Will Come

Space Cover Food Water

Space is defined as: Territory.

The area defended by an animal.

Home range.The area an animal actually

uses for life-sustaining needs.

Vertical space. The area from the ground cover

to the canopy that an animal needs for food and shelter.

Space

Many animals need as much up and down space as they do around space. Establish plant layers from groundcover to canopy. You will be amazed at the amount and variety of wildlife that can share a small area as long as they have vertical space.

WaterA source of water is essential

to all wildlife. Not only for drinking, some need it to complete their life cycle. A small pond with gently sloping sides allows many kinds of wildlife to satisfy their requirements. The sound of water dripping from a full milk jug with a pin hole suspended over a birdbath will attract the wildlife.

A reliable source of water is an attraction

most wildlife can’t resist

A dish filled with sand or pebbles and water allows

the butterfly to drink through it’s proboscis

FoodPlants are the primary

source of energy. They are the only living thing that can transform sunlight into useable energy through photosynthesis, thus, the food chain begins.

Diversity of plant succession will support the greatest diversity of native wildlife.

Variety is the spice of life.In addition to artificial feeders, it’s always a good idea to provide naturalfoods. Plant trees, shrubsand flowers which produceberries, nuts, fruits andnectar.

A variety of food sources will attract a

variety of wildlife

Cover/ShelterWild life species need

protection from both predators and weather. Cover requirements are almost as diverse as food requirements. Bird houses are fine but don’t forget the natural element. Tall grasses and bushy shrubs make a great hide-a-way.

Burrows provide underground refuge

A brush pile can quickly turn into a

condo for little critters.

Frogs aren’t fussy! PVC or plants will do just

fine for a shady resting spot

Over 48 species of cavity nesting birds can call a dead tree or “snag” home

Cold blooded butterflies use the heat from a baking rock to warm up

Attract what you like with specialty bird

houses and feeders, but don’t be surprised when other critters show up

Plant Succession

1. Bare ground2. Annual forbs and/or grasses3. Perennial forbs and grasses4. Shrubs5. Young woodland

(Less than 70 years old)

6. Mature woodland

Turning Your Yard Into a Habitat for

Wildlife

Developed by theVolusia County

Extension Service