Planning a space attractive to wildlife can range from installation of a simple birdbath or bird feeding station to a more comprehensive landscaping plan. What you decide to do in your yard depends upon the wildlife species that inhabit your area, the space available, and the effort and expense you are willing to devote to such a project.

First research and develop a plan of action. Find out what backyard wildlife species inhabit your area. Learn about their habitat requirements. Consider which ones you want to attract to your yard, and how you might accomplish that while avoiding inadvertently attracting less welcome species.

“Backyard Wildlife” refers to species well suited to living compatibly with people, including birds, bats, small mammals, butterflies and other insects. It is illegal to provide supplemental food to game animals such as deer, elk and bears. Doing so creates a threat to public safety and spreads disease.

• Make a sketch of your property. Evaluate which plantings need to be planned around, moved or eliminated. Seek advice from a local nursery or the County Extension Office about plants favored by selected species that thrive in your area. Native plant species are often the best choice since they are adapted to the area and are generally disease resistant.
• For a new lawn or immature landscaping, develop a long-term plan that provides phased-in improvements over a period of several years.
• Be realistic in your expectations. Each species has different habitat requirements and you can't expect to provide all requirements for all species simultaneously.