You can already feel it in the air, summer is on its way. It’s the perfect time to reconnect with nature, soak up the sun, and maybe even turn your garden or balcony into a little haven for the wild ones who make this season so magical. These tiny visitors do more than just brighten up the space; they ground us in the present and remind us of the quiet wonders of life.
Creating a wildlife-friendly space at home can offer food, water, and shelter for birds, pollinators, small mammals, and more. If this idea speaks to your soul, here are a few simple ways to get started:
1. Choose native plants
Native plants are the foundation of any wildlife-friendly garden. They’ve adapted over time to your local climate, soil, and wildlife, making them a reliable source of food and shelter.
In Ontario, for example, plants like milkweed (a must for monarch butterflies), black-eyed Susan, and serviceberry naturally attract bees, birds, and butterflies. Plus, native plants often require less maintenance and water, a win-win.
2. Create cozy hideaways
To make wild guests feel at home, it’s important to offer safe spots to rest or nest. Think layers, trees, shrubs, and grasses together help mimic the richness of natural habitats.
You can also leave a log to decompose, build a little rock pile, or set up birdhouses. These small touches make a big difference in offering shelter and warmth.
3. Provide fresh water
Water is life. A small fountain, shallow birdbath, or even a clean dish of water can attract birds, bees, butterflies, and sometimes even frogs.
Place it in a shaded spot, clean it regularly, and consider adding a few twigs or pebbles so insects have a place to land safely.
4. Skip the chemicals
Pesticides and synthetic fertilizers can be harmful to pollinators, soil life, and the delicate balance of your ecosystem. Instead, go for natural solutions: plant-based repellents, physical barriers, or encourage beneficial insects that help keep pests in check.
A thriving garden often finds its own balance, let nature work with you.
Summer is just around the corner. Why not make the most of it by inviting life, in all its buzzing, fluttering, chirping forms, into your space? Let your garden be a space of joy, connection, and renewal.
References
Volunteer, A. (2024). Creating a Wildlife Haven: Tips for a Wildlife-Friendly Garden. Alberta Institute For Wildlife Conservation. https://www.aiwc.ca/blog/creating-a-wildlife-haven-tips-for-a-wildlife-friendly-garden/
Trust, W. (2020). How to Attract Wildlife to Your Garden – Woodland Trust. Woodland Trust. https://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/blog/2020/06/attract-wildlife-to-your-garden/Landscape Ontario. (2025). Welcoming wildlife to your garden. (s. f.). https://landscapeontario.com/welcoming-wildlife-to-your-garden
