Living in a built-up urban environment means you don’t see as much wildlife as you do in the country. But there are several ways in which you can actively encourage wildlife to visit your garden and make a habitat there. Attracting wildlife to your garden will also increase your enjoyment of being outside, as the wildlife will add colour and beauty to your outdoor space and birds will provide bird song.

Doing a simple thing, such as hanging a bird feeder, or putting in a bird bath or a bird box, will attract more birds to your garden. And birds act as a natural form of pest control by feasting on pests that might otherwise damage your plants.

Plating nectar-rich plants such as buddleia will attract bees and butterflies. Or you might consider installing a pond to encourage frogs and newts. A great way to help the wildlife in your garden by avoiding using pesticides that damage the environment.

Wildlife will be attracted to a garden with lots of shrubs and ground-cover plants that act as hiding places for birds and insects. The more insects you have in your garden, the more birds will be attracted and soon your garden will be teeming with activity and interest.