Florida’s population is expanding by an estimated 600 people per day, fueling an ever-increasing demand for development. Development drives one of the greatest threats to Florida’s wildlife: habitat loss. According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, Florida is home to 70 endangered species, the second highest in the nation. Many additional species are threatened or imperiled.
As a homeowner, you can make a difference by creating habitats in your yard, providing the crucial resources our local wildlife needs to survive. Attracting wildlife is one of the nine core principles of the Florida-Friendly Landscaping ProgramTM. When landscaping for wildlife, keep the following key objectives in mind:
Provide shelter:
Limit the use of turf or pea rock, as these provide few resources. Instead, opt for native ground covers such as frog fruit or powderpuff mimosa if you desire low-growing vegetation. Diversify your plantings by including a variety of growth patterns, heights, and flowering times to create layers of shelter and attract a greater range of wildlife. The greater the habitat variety, the more niches you will create for different species.
When considering built shelters, such as birdhouses, bat boxes, and bee hotels, remember that many are species-specific.
One of the easiest ways to provide habitat is to embrace a bit of untidiness. Fallen leaves, dry stems, brush piles, and dead trees are excellent shelters for wildlife. Consider leaving some areas a little “messier”; your local critters will love it!
Provide food:
Food is essential for wildlife. Your goal should be to provide as much food as possible through natural sources. Ideally, these are available year-round. This can include flowers, berries, seeds, foliage, and other plant materials. You can also offer supplemental food sources such as bird feeders. Think of feeders as fast food, and wild seeds and berries as a well-balanced meal. When selecting a feeder, choose the style that best suits your environment and the wildlife you intend to attract.
Providing water:
Water is a critical resource in your wildlife garden. You can provide water through puddling stations, fountains, and bird baths. Puddling stations consist of sand, soil, stones, and water, mimicking a puddle and providing water and essential minerals to pollinators. They are easy to make at home and an excellent activity for kids. For information on building a puddling station, contact your local county extension office. Bird baths should be shallow with a textured surface to prevent slipping. Change water regularly to prevent mosquito breeding and algal growth. The sound of running water alone can attract wildlife; consider incorporating a small fountain into your yard to entice local critters.
Reduce threats to wildlife:
Invasive species are defined as “introduced plants and animals that cause harm to the environment, the economy, and/or human health”. Invasive plants frequently outcompete native species, reducing native habitats and foraging resources for wildlife. Therefore, invasive species removal is a great way to support native species. For information on identifying invasive species, contact your county extension office.
Outdoor cats pose another significant threat to wildlife. Cats play a significant role in bird decline, killing hundreds of millions of birds annually. Consider keeping your cats indoors or limiting their outdoor time to a supervised schedule.
Wildlife landscaping means embracing wildlife, even those less desirable species. Insects are vital to our ecosystems. While they may not be everyone’s cup of tea, practice tolerance by limiting pesticide use and allowing insects to roam free. Likewise, many weeds are beneficial to our native ecosystems. Consider designating some areas to let the weeds grow; your local wildlife will thank you!
Florida’s natural ecosystems depend on the choices we make every day. By creating welcoming spaces for wildlife, we become stewards of the environment and partners in conservation. Even small changes at home can make a difference. Start with your own yard, inspire your neighbors, and together, we can create a collective impact!
For specific plant recommendations or horticultural questions, contact your local County Extension Office.
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