Australia is blessed with an abundance of rare and wonderful native animals that can’t be found anywhere else on this earth. Unfortunately, we also have one of the worst records for vascular plant and mammal extinctions in the world.
Those of us with backyards or properties located close to parks and wild bushland can make a few small changes around the home that have a huge positive impact on the native wildlife in your area.
Don’t use chemical products in the garden
Chemical pesticides and fertilisers can cause damage to native wildlife. Encourage Ladybirds, lace wings and hoverflies to visit your garden instead, they’re all harmless natural predators that will eat annoying bugs like aphids.
Keep dogs fenced in and cats inside
Dogs and cats are likely to attack native wildlife like birds and possums, which won’t end well for anyone.
Choose new plants carefully
You can help out the local ecosystem by buying plants that are indigenous to your area, and local councils usually have a list of these plants online. Nectar-producing flora like Banksias, Grevilleas, and Bottlebrush attract species like Wattlebirds and Rainbow Lorikeets, and add colour to your garden.
Make new friends
Bees are integral to our eco-system but are facing an uncertain future. Do you part by providing hollow logs, trees or other natural hidey-holes for bees to relax in when they visit your garden.
Help animals when they need you
If you come across an injured animal contact your local wildlife centre, and avoid coming into contact with any venomous. If you live in an area densely populated with native wildlife, consider keeping a cardboard box and blanket in the boot of your car for emergency animal pick-ups.
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