Chesapeake Wildlife Heritage’s Backyard Habitat program focuses on properties with more limited space. From nesting boxes to butterfly gardens there are many habitat projects available that will attract a diversity of wildlife to any landscape. It is important that habitat projects be completed properly to avoid any possible negative effects on wildlife.

Trees and Shrubs
All wildlife need protective cover and an adequate food source. Trees, shrubs and other vegetation that produce flowers, fruits, nuts and winter cover (evergreens) are more likely to provide a desirable habitat for a greater diversity of wildlife, particularly our native songbirds. Planting native plants such as Eastern red cedars, oaks, bayberry and dogwoods is particularly effective.

Native Plants
Choose native plants whenever possible to fit into your landscape plan. Native plants are adapted to Eastern Shore weather, insects and other local growing conditions. They require less chemical input (which is good for the Bay) while offering a more natural setting for our native wildlife.

Bird Feeding
Feeding birds in your backyard is a wonderful way to spend some quiet time. Provide bird feeders that are easy to clean and will keep the bird seed dry. Different types of seed attracts a variety of birds. Black oil sunflower bird seed is the staple seed for any bird feeding station. Offer birds in your yard a bird bath filled with fresh water. Place feeders and birdbaths near trees and shrubs for an easy escape from predators.

Wildlife Nesting Boxes
Install nesting structures for a variety of wildlife: bluebirds, wood ducks, martins, owls, bats, kestrels and osprey. Nesting boxes placed in the proper habitat will attract a greater number of birds. All wildlife nesting structures should be protected with a predator guard and monitored to assure desireable species are using the nesting structure.

Wildflower Meadows
A wildflower meadow will cut down on your mowing time and provide a colorful display of flowers throughout much of the growing season. Meadows also provide good habitat for ground nesting birds such as bobwhite quail and meadowlarks.

Butterfly & Hummingbird Gardens
Butterflies provide color and life to your yardscape. They also actively pollinate various garden plants. Supplying food, sunlight and shelter will encourage butterflies and hummingbirds to visit your garden. Various species of native flowering plants will attract many different butterfly species. Host plants for caterpillars should be included.

Phragmites Control
Phragmites, also known as “common reed”, is an extremely invasive non-native wetland plant that will quickly choke out the many beneficial wetland plants species. Phragmites offer virtually no habitat value to wildlife because it grows so thick and tall. CWH sprays Phragmites in the fall season with a wetland approved herbicide. This will increase the natural biodiversity in your wetland.