Gardening for Wildlife

With its lilac-like flowers in shades of red, yellow, white, and purple, the butterfly bush brings beauty to your yard in late summer, and it's a magnet for butterflies.

Many viburnums are native to the U.S., and so are a natural addition to any wildlife garden. In addition to providing cover for birds, viburnums produce fruit that is relished by birds.

Dense, thorny shrubs like barberry give birds and small animals a safe place to rest. If these shrubs also provide food, in this case small berries, all the better.

Birds and other wildlife need fresh, clean water. If you do add a birdbath to your garden, be sure to clean it out periodically.

Birds that prefer to build their own nests often take up residence in shade trees like this 'Crimson Queen' Norway maple. Squirrels and a variety of other wildlife thrive in and around many popular shade trees.

Dense ground covers, like this creeping juniper, provide protective cover for small birds and animals.

The purple martins attracted by this "condo-style" birdhouse will entertain you with their graceful flight as they devour annoying insects.

To attract the largest variety of wildlife to your yard, plan on providing different types of foods in several locations. For example, some birds prefer ground-level feeding locations; others would rather be several feet off the ground.

Purple coneflower, a prairie native, is a favorite of butterflies and birds. In general, plants that are native to your area are a good bet for your wildlife garden. Often, they provide food or shelter for animals, and require little or no maintenance.