One of the easiest things you can do to support wildlife in a suburban garden is to add a small log pile. The BBC talks about log piles and the beetles, fungi, and critters they might attract here. And this article suggests that a log file is also an excellent addition to a butterfly garden.
So, when a neighbor told us that he had to take out two redwood trees that had been topped and were now unstable and dangerous (DO NOT TOP REDWOOD TREES!), I asked whether he could supply some logs. I was delighted to come hope and find a nice stack of wood in the corner near the garden gate. Today, I made two small piles in the front garden, and two slightly larger piles in the back. The first is under the redwoods.
The other is between the blue elderberry and the Carpenteria, stil in shade, but more exposed to rain.
Right now, the cuts look a little fresh, but soon it will all blend in with the garden. And in fall and winter, when the rains come, I'll go by and check whether the salamanders and other creatures are finding a home there.
Now, wasn't that easy? It took about 5 minutes (well, maybe 10) and who know, it might make all the difference for some critter I'll never even see.
So, when a neighbor told us that he had to take out two redwood trees that had been topped and were now unstable and dangerous (DO NOT TOP REDWOOD TREES!), I asked whether he could supply some logs. I was delighted to come hope and find a nice stack of wood in the corner near the garden gate. Today, I made two small piles in the front garden, and two slightly larger piles in the back. The first is under the redwoods.
The other is between the blue elderberry and the Carpenteria, stil in shade, but more exposed to rain.
Right now, the cuts look a little fresh, but soon it will all blend in with the garden. And in fall and winter, when the rains come, I'll go by and check whether the salamanders and other creatures are finding a home there.
Now, wasn't that easy? It took about 5 minutes (well, maybe 10) and who know, it might make all the difference for some critter I'll never even see.
Comments
I like Conutry Mouse's idea - But I'd expand it - Take a photo every week from the same vantage point and watch how the wood weathers and the insects gather, then post all the photos - like time lapse photography blogger style!
My back yard has lots of visitors, so I'm not too worried about rats as the coyotes will likely take care of them.