Native Vegetation meets these needs best for native Northwest birds and wildlife. Here are some tips for improving the habitat of your yard:
Keep any native trees and shrubs you already have. The denser the plants, the better for wildlife. Preserve interior conditions of large wooded tracts by leaving them undivided by clearing, roads or trails.
Use a variety of species of native plants appropriate for your soil, elevation and exposure. Include a stand of conifers for cover and wind protection. Begin with trees and shrubs and add native herbaceous plants. Woody plants are easier to cultivate.
Connect areas of similar habitat and encourage your neighbors to add native plantings, too.
Use all levels of vegetation, from tall trees to ground cover. Shrubs, both tall and short, are important sources of nest sites, roosting places and food.
Diversify topography, adding slopes and rocky places to provide many microhabitats.
Keep or create dead standing and downed trees (snags and brush piles). Snags do not have to be tall- 6-10 feet is fine for woodpeckers. Branches on the ground shelter birds from cats and hawks, and decaying logs offer homes for salamanders,
Plant food-producing trees and shrubs, and resurrect old apple trees, especially relished by deer. Leave some grasses uncut for winter seeds, and plant flowers for hummingbirds and butterflies.
Add water to the landscape, especially in dry weather. Birdbaths 2-3" deep with a gentle slope are good, and dripping water attracts many birds to drink and bathe. Garden pools should have water depth from one-half inch to 4 inches deep (add rocks inside). Frogs may honor you by moving in if your pool is large and natural enough.
Nest boxes and bird feeders are subjects all by themselves. The library has many good references for design and placement ideas.
The
National Wildlife Federation: Back Yard Basics
The National Wildlife Federation provides plenty of information for creating
backyard, school, and community habitats.
The Washington Department
of Fish and Wildlife
Visit the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife for information about
the Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary Program.
