1. Plants. If you want to attract wildlife to your garden, use native species which are more suited to your local climate. Use ornamental plants that provide a food source over a long period. Plants with berries, fruits and seeds will attract birds and those with nectar and pollen will also attract butterflies, bees and other types of insects.

Ivy, clematis and other climbers, along with hedges give shelter and nesting places for birds and overwintering sites for butterflies. Primrose - Flowers in spring provides nectar, while butterfly larvae feed on the leaves. Hazel - Nuts provide nourishment for birds and small mammals, while the foliage gets eaten by insects and moths. Lavender – smells great and bees love the flowers, finches love the seeds

2. Pond is probably the best single thing you can attract wildlife with. A pond should have shallow edges, deeper areas, gently sloping sides (to  allow things to climb in and out), and plenty of aquatic plants. If you do not have enough space for a pond, put some water out in a washing bowl.

3. Bird boxes. There are boxes for most species, and even special boxes for bats. Bird boxes will provide far more secure and comfortable nesting places than would otherwise be available. See DIY Section for a Nest Box building plan.

4. A log pile will attract insects, fungi, birds, mice, hedgehogs, slowworms, newts and toads.

5. Reduce the use of chemicals. Chemicals intended to control one pest species can have damaging effects on many other friendly species.

6. Put out a variety of nuts, seeds and fat balls to attract birds when natural food sources are scarce. They will at the same time eat the bugs and aphids on apple trees.

7. Leave some plants uncut throughout the winter to provide seeds for food and shelter for birds and other creatures.