Simple Ways to Attract and Enjoy Wildlife in the Backyard

Many times we are fighting off birds that eat our fruit, rodents eating roots, or insects devouring our plants’ leaves, but there are times when wildlife in the garden can add joy to the gardening experience. Gardening for the harvest is great, but creating a nature sanctuary takes our hobby to another level. I’ve been amazed to find various critters in my yard while out watering the garden or just walking around the backyard.

What is it about observing nature that makes it enjoyable?

It’s exciting to learn about new things and how things work. Our observations help us learn about the world around us. Science is based on observation.

As we observe we begin to understand why things act in the way they do. Our observations lead to a hypothesis that we can test for gaining knowledge. Nature brings an element of surprise or uniqueness that can be exciting to watch unfold.

There is also an element of beauty in our surroundings that we can appreciate. Nature tends to bring tranquility that is lost in the daily hustle and bustle of our lives.

Wildlife viewing helps us feel connected to nature
It’s relaxing!
It’s a low-cost activity that can be done as an individual or enjoyed with your family.
It can spark conservation efforts to aid wildlife.
Can create a memorable experience.
Gain a better understanding of the behaviors of wildlife in the wild and how they interact.

Things to Consider for Backyard Wildlife

If you’re looking at optimal ways to get the most out of your backyard wildlife, then there are some things to consider.

Get up Early

Many animals are more active in the early morning hours. Most city noise is subdued and temps aren’t as extreme. I’ve seen all kinds of amazing critters from roadrunners to cats roaming around my backyard as I’m out watering just before sunrise.

Be Safe

Some animals may appear harmless, but can be harmful or even deadly. For example, things like snakes can have lethal venom, whereas other varieties are innocuous.

All wildlife should be treated as being wild regardless of how cute and cuddly it may appear. Many wild animals can carry diseases. Observe from a distance.

Have the Camera Ready

We all want to capture those incredible moments and photographing backyard wildlife is an amazing activity. Remember patience is key for getting that great shot.

Wildlife photos help us to appreciate the artistic beauty of the natural world. If you’re new to taking photos or are looking for some guidance, start with these quick tips:

If using your phone for pics:

Utilize light effectively. If indoors, turn off the lights and rely on the natural lights from windows. A reflector can be used as needed. Shoot photos outdoors using natural daylight.
Know your phone’s features. HDR is High Dynamic Range. It’s useful to create balance in high contrast shots. Shutter, timer, flash, and filters are common features to play around with.
Use editing software.
Rule of thirds. Use the grid features and line the main image along a horizontal and vertical intersection.

If using a high-quality camera:

Fast Shutter Speeds. 1/1000^th of a second shoots a crisp, clean image.
Burst Mode. This allows you to capture a plethora of images to be able to pick out the winning photo
Macro Lens. If shooting insects, reptiles, butterflies or other small wildlife a macro lens can help with close range shots.
No flash. To ensure you don’t get that red eye effect, keep the flash off.
Long Lenses. These are optimal when trying to maintain your distance from animals.

Here is my favorite camera for taking wildlife photos at an affordable price over on Amazon.

Stay Hidden

Wildlife is easily startled by humans or other potential threats. If you sit in a corner of your yard, in your patio, next to a tree, or any other sheltered spot in your yard, you’re more likely to prevent startling the wildlife. Stay in the same spot and refrain from moving around.

What are some ways to attract wildlife to my garden?

It isn’t a given that you’re going to have an abundance of amazing animals to observe roaming around your backyard. Sometimes you have to create a place where they want to be. Here are some simple ways to create a backyard where wildlife will flock too.

Water Features

Wildlife need water to survive. Living in the Arizona desert, water isn’t as readily available for wildlife. Building various structures for the backyard like ponds, bird baths, and fountains can promote wildlife in your backyard.

Ponds are great for aquatic life like fish, turtles, frogs, and plants. Just make sure it’s moving water and not standing water. Standing water becomes a breeding ground for mosquitos and problems.

Create a Healthy Ecosystem

Pests can be a nuisance to our garden when they get out of control, but keep in mind these pests are also food for other beneficial insects and animals. Using harmful pesticides to wipe out pests can throw your backyard ecosystem out of whack.

It is important to take measures to minimize a pest outbreak, but hold off on taking extreme measures anytime you see an unwanted bug.

Plant a Variety

Having a plethora of different plants, flowers, trees, and shrubs will attract a variety of different things to the garden. Certain plants bloom at different times of the year, so diversity ensures that you’re always catering to some sort of life.

Don’t Forget the Soil Life

Using mulch and other organic material helps to keep the soil life active and multiplying. Feeding worms and all the various insects that break down mulch and matter is a great way to attract other wildlife. Reptiles and birds feed on these insects and worms.

Natural Shelters

Planting trees and shrubs provide natural habitats for birds and other critters to live. Birdhouses and feeders are a great way to invite them into your yard.

Feed Them

Alright, I know it’s a frustrating sight to see that piece of fruit you’ve been waiting to ripen on the tree half eaten when you go to pick it, but growing fruit trees can also be a means to attracting wildlife.

If you allow your trees to grow large you may find that you have excess fruit to spare. Utilize nuts, bird seed, nectars, and other foods to attract wildlife.

How can I help wildlife in my backyard?

From time to time you’ll come across an injured animal. Carefully approach the animal and assess the situation. Check to see if you can determine how the animal is hurt. Look for vomit, blood, or other signs of injury.

If it doesn’t look too serious, allow the animal to recover on its own. The National Wildlife Rehabilitators Association provides step by step guidance on when you should place an animal back in a nest or when it’s time to seek an animal rehabilitator.

Author: Joseph

Filed Under: Garden Living