Gardening with Wildlife

A butterfly

We're lucky in Florida to have incredibly diverse wildlife, but natural habitats are diminishing.

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Nothing makes an outdoor living space feel complete like wildlife. Include a bird feeder and birdbath and plants that invite brightly colored butterflies to visit.

Wildlife need food, water, cover, and space. Add trees and plants that bear fruit and seed in your landscape. Plant flowers for butterflies, birds, and bees. Native plants can be a good source of food for animals and insects. If you don't have a natural water source, consider building a small pond or adding a birdbath. Research what kinds of birds nest in your area, and purchase or build them a home.

Protect your wildlife visitors by limiting pesticide use, and using the least toxic products available. Keep your cat indoors as they are natural hunters, even if they are fed.

Nuisance Wildlife

An Ask IFAS series on coping with wildlife that have become a nuisance.