Transform Your Backyard into a Country Club for Critters

Welcome Critters to Your Backyard Oasis

Whether your backyard is an acre, a patch of grass, or an apartment ledge, you can roll out the red carpet for native animals like birds, butterflies, or bunnies looking for the comforts of home. By providing the essentials, you can create a haven for critters, some of which might even be endangered.

Understand the Importance of Habitat

Did you know that some of the animals in your own backyard may be endangered? While more than 700 species of butterflies live in North America, many species, like the Karner blue butterfly and the Schaus swallowtail, are close to extinction. By making simple yet impactful changes, you can support these precious species.

Four Essentials for a Healthy Habitat

Regardless of size, all healthy habitats need four basic elements: food, water, shelter, and places to raise young. Here’s how you can provide these essentials and turn your backyard into a critter paradise:

Food: Plant butterfly bushes, native trees, and flowers to provide nectar for butterflies and other pollinators. Install bird feeders with a variety of seeds and nuts to attract different bird species.

Water: Add a bird bath or a small water feature to ensure critters have a fresh water source. Even a shallow dish of water can make a big difference.

Shelter: Put up birdhouses and bat boxes to offer safe nesting spots. Plant dense shrubs and create brush piles to provide cover for small animals and insects.

Places to Raise Young: Native plants and trees not only offer food but also serve as ideal spots for critters to lay eggs and raise their young. Consider adding milkweed for monarch butterflies, as it’s the only plant they use for laying eggs.

Get Started with Small Changes

You don’t need a huge space to make a difference. Even small steps can have a big impact. Start with what you can manage, and gradually add more elements as you go. Remember, every effort helps in making your backyard a welcoming country club for critters!

So, get out there, roll out the green carpet, and enjoy the company of your new backyard guests. Happy critter-welcoming!