Seeds, berries, nuts, insects, worms, grass, leaves and buds are important wildlife foods. Provide natural wildlife forage by planting food-bearing trees and shrubs.

• Select a variety of plants that have different blooming and fruiting periods to maximize the time period that your yard can provide wildlife foods.
• Refrain from spraying pesticides that kill insects that serve as wildlife food or are beneficial in the garden.

In the web of life, some animals prey on others in order to survive. Attracting wildlife invariably attracts predators. Don't be surprised or upset if a hawk flies away with a pine siskin or a snake devours the pond frog. Instead, take pride in the fact that your backyard supports a diversity of wildlife and natural processes.

Observe the birds found in your area and seek the advice of a reputable birding business to determine the kinds of food and appropriate type of feeder to install.

A variety of bird feeders are available for purchase or you can build your own.

• To minimize predation by neighborhood cats and other predators, feeders should be mounted at least 4 to 5 feet above ground on a post or suspended from a tree or pulley mechanism.
• Galvanized pipe or installation of a metal band or “cone” on a wooden post is one way to predator-proof a bird feeder.
• It's a good idea to locate your feeder near a tree, shrub or hedge. Birds like to survey a feeder from a perch before eating and can seek cover from hawks and falcons in foaling.