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Want your garden to be a hotspot for local wildlife? By adding particular features to your yard, you may be able to attract specific animals. Such features could include bird feeders and birdbaths. You can buy these pieces of garden apparatus premade – however, for those that want to save money, it’s also possible to go DIY and build your own. Below are just a few DIY solutions for attracting nature to your garden that could be worth trying.
Create your own bird feeder
Bird feeders are a great way to attract local birds. While you can buy a wooden bird feeder, there are so many DIY solutions that won’t cost you a penny. Pretty much any container that you can hang from a tree can be turned into a DIY bird feeder for placing seeds in – a few great options could include empty tin cans, an empty plastic bottle or an empty cereal carton attached to a string. Make sure that any sharp edges are smoothed over or covered in tape.
Create your own bird bath
A birdbath could be effective at attracting birds wanting to drink water or bathe. Instead of splashing out on a premade birdbath, why not consider building your own? This guide on how to make a birdbath at home offers tips on how to build one using a shallow bowl and wooden dowels. Make sure to keep it topped up with water in the summer months.
Start a woodpile
Woodpiles can be useful for keeping if you have a fire pit or chiminea. However, this isn’t the only use for a woodpile. A woodpile could be effective simply for attracting animals such as possums or chipmunks that like to nest in these places. The end of the garden could be the perfect location for such a woodpile.
Build your own pond
A pond can be a beautiful feature in a garden. It can also be a great feature for attracting local wildlife. Animals such as frogs, newts, and dragonflies are often attracted to ponds. On top of this, it could be a great location for keeping pet fish. Many people hire a professional to build a pond, but it’s possible to save money by digging and laying your own pond. You can check out this guide to building a pond for more tips on how to build one.
Plant a tree/more shrubs
You can also attract wildlife to your garden by adding more plants. Adding a tree to your garden is certain to attract animals such as birds and squirrels. Planting a large tree yourself isn’t advised – however you may be able to plant a sapling or small tree without the help of professionals. Other plants (especially those with strong fragrant scents) may help to attract pollinating bugs such as bees and butterflies. Make sure to plant trees and large shrubs in locations where their roots won’t eventually cause disruptions (don’t plant a tree right next to your house for this reason).
