Wild Things

Many people think of the ‘bush’ when they think of where native plants and animals live, but cities are also important when it comes to providing habitat for native animals. In some cases, cities contain the last remaining refuges for some of our threatened species.

Up to 90% of the land in cities is privately owned. Council protects remnant vegetation, and creates havens for locally native species on public land, but we need householders, businesses, schools and other landowners to do the same on private land. Encouraging habitat creation in backyards and other privately owned land is vital if we want our cities to remain as places where native plants and animals can thrive.

Wild Things

Every garden, no matter what size or where it is, can be a place for wild plants and animals to shelter, visit, or make their homes if we can garden in a way that supports the unique and special plants and animals native to our area.

By creating spaces for native plants and animals, we benefit too by:

  • Creating beautiful spaces for people
  • Learning and gaining new skills
  • Strengthening our connections with community, nature and place, and
  • Improving our health and wellbeing
     

Plants

  • Diversify your garden with groundcovers, shrubs, and taller trees
  • Dense plantings attract more animals and provide nesting and shelter spaces
  • Grow insect-attracting plants for bees, butterflies, and insectivorous birds
  • Prioritize native plants to attract local wildlife

1.    Limit Herbicides and Pesticides:

  • Avoid harming other animals by minimizing herbicide and pesticide use.

2.    Connect to Bushland:

  • If near bushland, grow native trees and shrubs to create wildlife corridors.
  • Consult your local council nursery for native plant advice.

3.    Soil Care:

  • Use groundcover and natural mulches (avoid woodchips).
  • Understand your soil type for healthier plants.

4.    Homes for Wildlife:

  • Install nest boxes or insect hotels.
  • Artificial hollows help hollow-nesting animals find shelter.

5.    Water Feature:

  • Consider a frog pond or a self-cleaning, chemical-free swimming pool.
  • Birds and native frogs will appreciate it!

More information (links)
Backyards for Nature | NSW Environment and Heritage
Cities for nature | NSW Environment and Heritage
Gardens for Wildlife Victoria
Wildlife Friendly Gardens - Wildlife Information - WIRES
Bayside Garden Centre | Kogarah
Sutherland Shire Council Community Nursery
Randwick Community Nursery - Randwick City Council (nsw.gov.au)
Which Plant Where
Creating a sustainable native garden | Australian Plants Society (austplants.com.au)
 

Nest Boxes

Even if you don’t have much plant life in your outdoor space you can attract wildlife to your garden by installing a nest box.

1.    Choose Your Design:

  • Decide on the type of nest box you want to make. Different species have specific requirements, so consider who you want to attract.
  • Common designs include hole-fronted boxes (suitable for Blue Tits and House Sparrows) and open-fronted boxes (ideal for Robins and Spotted Flycatchers).
  • For hole-fronted boxes, the hole diameter matters. A 32 mm hole accommodates most small birds.

2.    Materials and Construction:

  • Wood is the best material for nest boxes. Use at least 15mm thick wood to prevent warping and provide insulation.
  • Soft woods like pine and cedar are easy to cut and durable. Hard woods like oak or beech work too but may warp.
  • Assemble panels using nails or screws. Glue can reinforce joints, but don’t rely on it alone.
  • Drill drainage holes in the bottom and ensure waterproofing.

3.    Positioning and Maintenance:

  • Face the nest box away from prevailing winds (usually north-east) and avoid direct midday sun.
  • Install tree-guards or exclusion collars to keep out cats and rats.
  • Add a ladder inside from the opening to the floor for baby birds to grip.
  • Monitor the nest box, record usage, and address any unwanted intruders (like bees or invasive birds).

More Information

For more detailed instructions and profiles of bird species that use nest boxes, check out the 

Birdlife Australia Nest Box Plans | BIRDS in BACKYARDS 
 

Butterflies and other insects

Insects, often dismissed as pests, play critical roles in our environment. They pollinate plants, maintain soil health, and serve as vital food sources for other animals. Unfortunately, insect populations are declining, even in Sydney.

Diverse and Essential: Insects constitute a staggering 40% of all animal species on Earth. Their beauty and intrigue extend beyond their small size—they are essential for life itself.

The Impact of Insect Decline:

  • Crop Dependency: Without insects, crop yields would suffer, and there would be no honey production.
  • Native Predators: Insect-eating native animals, such as frogs, birds, reptiles, and mammals, rely on insects. A decline in insect numbers affects their survival.

Garden Guardians:

  • Pollinators: Bees, flies, moths, butterflies, and beetles play a crucial role in pollinating our plants and crops
  • Decomposers: Ants, cockroaches, flies, and earwigs break down decaying matter, enriching the soil with nutrients.
  • Natural Pest Controllers: Wasps, praying mantids, ladybirds, lacewings, dragonflies, hoverflies, and damselflies keep garden pests in check

By appreciating insects and creating insect-friendly spaces, we contribute to a healthier world - for both them and us.

Protecting Insects: Simple Steps for Everyone

Insect decline is a growing concern, even among scientists. Factors like widespread pesticide use and habitat loss have contributed to reduced insect diversity and abundance. But there are easy ways to support these vital creatures:

  1. Embrace Wildness: Allow your garden to go a bit wild. A more natural environment benefits insects.
  2. Native Plants: Cultivate butterfly-friendly native plants such as bottlebrushes, grevilleas, lilly pillies, and daisies
  3. Water Sources: Install a birdbath or pond - remember, insects need water, too.
  4. Chemical-free approach: Avoid chemical pesticides. Garden pests serve as food for birds, frogs, and lizards, which act as natural pest controllers.
  5. Natural groundcovers: Skip the bricks and concrete—opt for natural groundcovers and mulches.
  6. Caterpillar Haven: Welcome caterpillars into your garden. The resulting butterflies are not only beautiful but also essential pollinators.

By taking these steps, you contribute to a healthier ecosystem where insects thrive.

More information

Backyard Buddies - Build a Butterfly Box 
How to attract butterflies | Better Homes and Gardens 
Tips for attracting Butterflies
 

On this page