We should consider our place of residence as a respite, or home for birds and nearby wildlife. Providing food, water, and shelter, are constant reminders of our responsibility to nature. In Springfield and the Ozarks, we seem to be going through a very tough, cold winter. Buffeted by continual arctic freezes, the wildlife in our neighborhoods are feeling the brunt of it. It is the middle of February, and if we haven’t done much yet, we can really only look outside in the blustery wind, cold, and snow and ask what we can do in the future to secure our home (our yards), as a safe haven for nature to thrive. What can we do now, and what can we plan to do in the future so that we are better prepared.
Winter transforms our backyards into serene, snowy landscapes, but it also poses significant challenges for local wildlife. With food sources dwindling and temperatures plummeting, many creatures struggle to survive the colder months. Fortunately, there are numerous ways you can create a winter-friendly habitat right in your own backyard.
For myself, I have chickens in my back yard. When I leave out food and water in subfreezing temperatures, I leave enough for the birds, squirrels, rabbits, etc… There are several things we can do right now.
Install Bird Feeders
Bird feeders are a fantastic way to provide essential food sources for various bird species during winter. When natural food is scarce, feeders become lifelines for birds, offering seeds, nuts, and suet that help them maintain their energy levels. By strategically placing bird feeders around your yard, you can attract a diverse array of birds, from finches and chickadees to woodpeckers and nuthatches. If you are familiar with my corner on Jefferson and Cherokee, you know I leave most of my gardens standing (flowers cut back with stems remaining, leaves providing cover and mulch) throughout the winter. Seeds on the ground help to provide nutrition for the birds and wildlife, rabbits, etc.
We should become good observers of what types of birds frequent our neighborhood and our yards. To maximize the effectiveness of your bird feeders, choose a variety of feeder types and food options to cater to different bird preferences. Regularly refill and clean the feeders to prevent disease and ensure a steady supply of nourishment. Additionally, placing feeders near trees or shrubs can provide birds with nearby shelter from predators and harsh weather. I try to leave as much cover as I can with scrubs and plant material that I did not cut all the way to the ground.
Provide Fresh Water Sources
Access to fresh water is crucial for wildlife, especially during winter when natural water sources may be frozen or scarce. Providing a reliable water source can support birds, mammals, and even insects, helping them stay hydrated and maintain their energy levels. A simple birdbath can serve as an excellent water source, but it’s important to ensure the water remains accessible despite freezing temperatures. As I said, I provide fresh water daily for my chickens. In freezing temps, I may refill with warm water two o three times a day. Wildlife in my yard has access to the water as well.
Something you may consider keeping water available, consider using a heated birdbath or a fountain that prevents the water from freezing. Place the water source in a visible area, away from heavy foot traffic, to give wildlife easy access while minimizing disturbance. Regularly clean the water container to prevent the spread of diseases and replace the water as needed. By maintaining a fresh water source, you create a vital oasis that supports your backyard wildlife throughout the winter months.
Plant Native Shrubs and Trees
Think about planting native shrubs and trees that play a pivotal role in supporting backyard wildlife by providing natural food sources, shelter, and nesting sites. These plants are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions, ensuring they remain healthy and resilient during winter. By incorporating native species into your landscape, you create a habitat that meets the specific needs of local wildlife, including birds, mammals, and insects.
Choose a variety of native plants that offer different types of berries, seeds, and nuts, which serve as vital food sources for wildlife. Additionally, evergreen shrubs provide year-round shelter, protecting animals from harsh winds and cold temperatures. Incorporating diverse native flora also supports a balanced ecosystem, promoting biodiversity and enhancing the overall health of your backyard environment. The presence of native plants not only benefits wildlife but also adds natural beauty and seasonal interest to your garden.
Create Shelter with Brush Piles
Brush piles are simple yet effective shelters that offer refuge to a variety of wildlife during the winter months. By strategically stacking branches, logs, and other natural materials in a corner of your yard, you create cozy hiding spots that protect animals from predators and harsh weather. Brush piles can serve as nesting sites for small mammals, insects, and even birds seeking refuge.
To build a functional brush pile, gather a mix of different branch sizes and arrange them loosely to allow air circulation while providing ample cover. Place the pile in a quiet, sheltered area away from high-traffic zones to encourage wildlife to use it as a safe haven. Regularly maintaining the brush pile by adding fresh materials and ensuring it remains intact will keep it attractive and usable for animals throughout the winter. Brush piles not only support wildlife but also add a rustic charm to your backyard landscape.
Install Birdhouses and Nesting Boxes
Birdhouses and nesting boxes provide essential shelter and breeding sites for various bird species, especially during the winter months when natural nesting sites may be scarce. By installing birdhouses in your backyard, you offer birds a safe place to roost, nest, and raise their young, contributing to the overall health and diversity of your local bird population.
Choose birdhouses that are appropriate for the specific species you wish to attract, considering factors such as entrance hole size, interior dimensions, and mounting height. Position the birdhouses in sheltered locations, protected from strong winds and direct sunlight, to create a comfortable environment for the birds. Regularly clean and maintain the birdhouses to prevent the spread of diseases and ensure they remain inviting for returning birds each season. Providing birdhouses not only supports wildlife but also offers delightful opportunities for birdwatching and connecting with nature in your backyard.
Leave Leaf Litter and Natural Debris
Leaf litter and natural debris play a crucial role in supporting backyard wildlife by providing essential nutrients and habitat for various organisms. Leaving fallen leaves, twigs, and other organic matter on the ground creates a rich environment for insects, amphibians, and small mammals, which in turn support larger predators like birds and foxes.
To maintain a natural and welcoming habitat, avoid raking and removing all leaf litter from your yard. I don’t leave the leaves on the grass. They are used for mulch in my flower beds. I let it accumulate in designated areas, such as under trees or in brush piles, to provide cover and nesting materials for wildlife. Additionally, decomposing plant matter enriches the soil, promoting healthy plant growth that benefits the entire ecosystem. I do use the leaf mulch from mowing the yard as mulch in flower beds or on the grass to provide nutrition for the upkeep of the yard itself. By embracing natural debris, you create a more sustainable and wildlife-friendly front and back yard that thrives even in the depths of winter.
Provide Shelter with Log Piles
Log piles are another excellent way to offer shelter and habitat for backyard wildlife during the winter months. Stacked logs provide hiding places for small mammals like squirrels, rabbits, and hedgehogs, as well as serving as homes for insects and fungi that play vital roles in the ecosystem. These natural shelters help animals stay warm and protected from the elements, increasing their chances of survival through the harsh winter.
To create a log pile, collect sturdy logs from your yard or local landscaping services and stack them in a corner of your backyard, ensuring they are stable and secure. Incorporate a mix of different sizes and shapes to cater to various species and to promote biodiversity. Avoid using treated or painted wood, as chemicals can be harmful to wildlife. Regularly inspect and maintain the log pile, adding fresh logs as needed to keep it functional and safe. Log piles not only support wildlife but also add a rustic and natural aesthetic to your outdoor space.
Plant Winter-Blooming Plants
Winter-blooming plants provide much-needed nectar and pollen for insects like bees and butterflies, which are essential for pollination and maintaining a healthy ecosystem. By incorporating these resilient plants into your backyard garden, you ensure that even in the coldest months, wildlife has access to vital food sources. Additionally, winter-blooming plants add vibrant color and life to your garden when most other plants are dormant.
Check out what fits in your own yard and incorporate over time. Choose a variety of hardy plants that can withstand frost and cold temperatures, such as hellebores, witch hazels, and winter aconites. These plants not only attract pollinators but also offer visual interest and texture to your overall garden design. Plant them in strategic locations where they receive adequate sunlight and protection from harsh winds. By providing winter blooms, you create a supportive environment for beneficial insects, contributing to the overall health and resilience of your yard’s ecosystem.
Leave a Reply