Habitat Design creating places for nature to thrive
Primary features of habitat are food, water and shelter
​
Habitat is an important component of a balanced ecosystem yet in gardening we often don't consider the important foundation that it provides. A healthy garden will support a great amount of diversity in all living things. from plants and birds to all sorts of insects.
​
Flowering plants can be a host to our favourite butterflies, while also providing food in the way of nectar, pollen and end-of-season seeds. Vines, shrubs and trees have value as a place for birds to shelter and nest, while also contributing food with their fruit, berries, foliage and twigs.
​
Native bee species have very particular nesting requirements that make them vulnerable to changes in the landscape.
​
FEATURE CREATURE: the toad
aka "the ultimate pest-control'
​
There are many benefits to having toads on your property and if you have a toad in your garden, that means you not only have a friend, you have an ecosystem!
​
The average toad can live 10-12 years in the wild and over 20 years in captivity. Toads are strict carnivores which mean they are constantly on the lookout for food. For a toad, that means bugs. Their diet includes flies, crickets, slugs, ants, beetles, spiders and other invertebrates. They truly are nature's best natural pest-control.
Like all amphibians, toads absorb environmental pollutants through their skin. If there are chemical fertilizers or pesticides in your garden they will not survive. Seeing a toad in your garden is a good indicator of a clean environment.
We will add habitat features to your garden
Contact us for a site visit - together we'll find ways for nature to thrive!
Trees and Brush
Dead trees are home for wildlife nesting in tree cavities and fallen branches can be beneficial overwintering sites. Brush piles are a great way to utilize material on your property that provide shelter for insects, birds, and wildlife. Best place is a sunny spot, near a tree line, away from buildings
Ground Nests
Some habitat involves leaving the ground bare, or allowing organic material like leaves and hollow pithy stems to accumulate in the garden. Bees and toads like bare, open ground; toads prefer sheltering in loose piles of rocks and bees love the sun. Garden beetles love berms with native grasses.
​
Installing Habitat
All properties may not be suited to habitat design so the next best option is having features installed. Consider a bird house, bat box, or even bug and bee hotels. Some natural elements of rock or well placed logs can also serve as beneficial habitat.