Wildlife gardening

Changes in land use and lifestyles have resulted in a rapid decline in semi-natural habitats and the species they contain. In Northern Ireland alone, more than 50 species of plants and animals have become extinct in the last century.

Your garden and biodiversity

Most gardens already benefit biodiversity as they contain many habitats and species and provide food, shelter and water for animals. However, there are lots of small things you can do to help
promote biodiversity, especially during the winter when the weather gets colder and food is in short supply.

If you have no garden

Feed the birds, especially during winter. Clean feeders regularly and avoid using salty or spicy food or items such as bread or uncooked rice which can swell when eaten.
Plant native species as these help our wildlife the most.
Plant hanging baskets and window boxes to attract butterflies and other insects. In winter, place bird feeders and bird boxes on balconies and terraces.
Leave out water trays - a shallow container around 30cm wide should be sufficient.
Record the plant and animal species you see outside. This information can help determine when species are in decline. You can send your records to the Centre for Environmental Data and Recording (CEDaR)
Volunteer to help wildlife in your local area with organisations such as the Ulster Wildlife Trust, the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Conservation Volunteers and the Woodland Trust.

If you have a back yard

Put up bird boxes.
Allow plants to set seed as they can provide winter feeding for birds.
Ensure bird tables are positioned to keep birds safe from cats and other predators.
Grow plants and vegetables in containers using peat-free compost. Peat bogs support many rare and threatened plants and animals and most of Northern Ireland's bogs have been destroyed.
Choose plants that attract wildlife.
Create a mini pond using a stone trough or enamel sink.
Create an insect home to encourage insects such as ladybirds and lacewings and reduce pests like greenfly.

If you have a small garden

Compost garden material and kitchen scraps to reduce household waste going to landfill. Do-it-yourself compost is free, can be of excellent quality and provides a home for insects and fungi.
Plant climbers such as honeysuckle or ivy to provide food and cover for birds and insects.
Water wisely as water is a very precious resource. You can collect rainwater in a water butt.
Plant native trees such as rowan or holly.
Provide water for birds to drink and bathe in.
Create a variety of habitats such as a mini pond, log or rock pile. These are great for insects and are quick and easy to make.
Take care not to plant invasive species.
Avoid using pesticides, herbicides and slug pellets.

If you have a large garden

Put up bird and bat boxes.
Plant a dense border to provide cover for small mammals.
Consider leaving part of your lawn uncut for part of the summer. Long grass is beneficial to many species.
Create a wildflower meadow and attract a host of butterflies.
Create a pond or a water feature for frogs and newts. Stop it from freezing over by placing small floating items like ping-pong balls or twigs in it. If it does freeze over, create a hole using a hot saucepan base.
Leave out any fallen fruit for birds to peck on.
Plant a native species hedge to provide a home and food for birds and mammals. Remember to check if a species is native to Northern Ireland.
Delay any major pruning of hedges and trees until late autumn.
Grow plants that flower in different seasons for a year-round supply of food.
Use organic methods to control pests.
Plant seed-producing wildflowers and native trees such as hawthorn and holly.
Source materials for your garden, such as wood products, responsibly. Look for the Forest Stewardship Council logo which ensures woodlands are managed sustainably.