Anyone can create a welcoming haven for local wildlife. In fact, wildlife habitat gardens support twice as much wildlife as conventional lawns and non-native plant gardens. Turning your yard, balcony container garden or work landscape into a Certified Wildlife Habitat to attract birds, butterflies, and other neighborhood wildlife is fun, easy, and can make a lasting difference. Here is what your wildlife habitat should include:
 
Food: Native plants provide food eaten by a variety of wildlife. Feeders can supplement natural food sources.
 
Water: All animals need water to survive, and some need it for bathing or breeding as well.
 
Cover: Wildlife need places to take shelter from bad weather and places to hide from predators or hunt for prey.
 
Places to Raise Young: Wildlife need resources to reproduce, and to protect and nourish their young.
 
Sustainable Practices: Maintain your yard or garden in natural ways to ensure soil, air, and water stay healthy and clean.

Visit the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) site to learn more about creating a Certified Wildlife Habitat. There is a small application fee that will help the NWF in their efforts to protect wildlife and habitats. You will receive a certificate and have an opportunity to buy a sign or plaque to display in your habitat. 

Certify your space to show your commitment to wildlife. It’s easier than you might think. Wild Birds Unlimited is a Champion Sponsor of the NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat Program. Learn more on how to certify your wildlife habitat by clicking here, https://www.nwf.org/Garden-for-Wildlife/Certify