WILDLIFE IN YOUR GARDEN
The lively activity around the bird table when scraps are put out , shows how easy it can be to attract more birds into your garden. However, birds need more than just a source of food. Safe nesting sites are essential if they are to escape the neighbour's cat or the local fox. Natural sites are not always available, so no wildlife garden can be complete without at least one nesting box, so ask about putting one up when you have your trees pruned. Tree Craft Ltd. can also supply them, just ask when we quote for your work.
Insects are also essential to our gardens, as they pollinate many plants, from daffodils to tulip trees. Some are natural predictors (ladybirds and lacewings) on garden pest such as aphids, others become food themselves for birds and bats. Insects can be encouraged by planting flowering plants that produce nectar for their food and by growing dense cover in places where they can find refuge.
Bats are probably the most illusive of our garden visitors and due to their nocturnal lives we know very little about them. Bats roost during the day in tree hollows, in dense shrubs or climbers, and in buildings. These fascinating mammals are declining in numbers due mainly to the loss of roosts and feeding areas, and the increasing use of pesticides. You can help by not using chemical sprays, planting flowers to attract insects and by putting up bat boxes. An environmental arborist from Tree Craft Ltd. could offer you help and advice, from plant selection to choosing roost and nest boxes. |
