Where the Wild Things Are

A healthy backyard is one that teems with life. It might include dragonflies, bumblebees, frogs, birds, and millions of tiny organisms barely visible. It’s a warm and welcoming place that can also be an integral part of the ecosystems of the Willamette Valley. 
 
Birds and wildlife require the same basics as people: food, cover, water, and space. Adding bird feeders, native plants, water features, and nest sites helps create a supportive and healthy habitat for a variety of wild neighbors. 
 
Following a few simple steps will ensure a backyard retreat, full of life and vigor. Start your own home action plan and you will see great results in a short period of time. 
 
Make A Plan: A little research goes a long way when creating a habitat garden and healthy backyard. If additions and transformations take place haphazardly, it may defeat the purpose by creating more work rather than less. Begin with a plan and have patience while you watch it take shape. 
 
Plant it and they will come: The fruits and flowers of native trees, shrubs and grasses are eaten by native wildlife while these same plants also shelter birds from weather and predators. Native evergreens offer winter respite. Learn the food habits of the birds you want to attract and then plant the appropriate trees, shrubs and flowers. Following is a list of plants with high wildlife value. They will bring you hours of natural beauty, while also adding texture and color to your landscape.