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Backyard

Basic Requirements

Three Essential Elements of Wildlife Habitat

Food - There are a variety of bird, mammal, amphibian, reptile, and insect species that may want to call your backyard home. While each species has specific food requirements, providing an abundance of each major food category will appeal to the broadest array of wildlife species.

• Major food categories for wildlife

Cover - Every wildlife species visiting your yard has specific cover requirements. Providing an abundance of common cover categories will appeal to the broadest array of wildlife species.

• Important cover types for wildlife

Water - All wildlife needs some sources of water near the place they call home. If a permanent water supply such as a stream or pond is not present near your yard, the addition of a backyard pond or birdbath can provide this needed feature to your landscape. Many species get their daily water requirements from morning dew or food that they eat. However, having a permanent water sources is an effective attractant, especially when available water is scarce. Birdbaths and water misters are readily used by birds and butterflies. Backyard ponds or water gardens provide habitat for aquatic and semiaquatic animals and are attractive backyard landscape features. Having gradual slopes and planting vegetation within and adjacent to the pond with enhance its value to wildlife.