Every little space can help

You don't need a large garden to make space for wildlife. Pots, window boxes, balconies, patios and small corners can all provide useful resources. The aim isn't to create a perfect wildlife garden — it's simply to provide more of the things wildlife needs and make your outdoor space a little more welcoming.

What does wildlife need?

  • Food

    Grow a variety of plants that provide natural sources of food, from nectar and pollen to seeds and other plant material.

  • Water

    Provide a clean, accessible source of water for wildlife to drink from and, where appropriate, bathe in.

  • Shelter

    Provide places where wildlife can hide, rest and find protection from weather and predators.

  • Places to Nest

    Leave or create suitable places where wildlife can nest, lay eggs or raise their young.

Small changes, real benefits

  • Grow More Flowers

    Add flowering plants to beds, pots, containers or window boxes. A mixture of plants can provide food for visiting pollinators at different times of year.

  • Leave a Little Wild

    Not every corner needs to be perfectly tidy. Fallen leaves, stems and undisturbed areas can provide useful shelter and habitat for small creatures.

  • Avoid Harmful Chemicals

    Where possible, use wildlife-friendly ways to manage pests and other garden problems, reducing the risk of harming beneficial insects and other visitors.

  • Add Water

    Even a small source of water can help wildlife. Keep it clean, make sure creatures can get in and out safely, and avoid creating deep, steep-sided containers that could trap small animals.

Start small and let it grow

You don't need to make every change at once. Start with what suits your space - perhaps a pot of flowers, a small water source or simply leaving one corner a little less tidy. Watch what happens, notice what begins to visit and build on it over time.