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Table of Contents

Introduction………………………………………………….2 Butterflies…………………………………………………...3 Birds………………………………………………………..6 Amphibians…………………………………………………..9 Mammals…………………………………………………...11 Safety……………………………………………………...14 Damages…………………………………………………....15 Concluding Remarks…………………………………………16

Image found at: http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Garden_pond_3.jpg

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Introduction

For centuries, viewing wild animals has been a hobby for people. In the 1700's, birds

were documented in books for their beauty, and more recently bird watching has

increased as a recreational activity. There are ample opportunities to view wildlife at

zoos and wildlife parks, such as the one located locally at Penn's Cave. These close

encounters provide nature lovers with opportunities for endless enjoyment.

With such an interest growing in wildlife, it is important to note that animals are losing

their natural habitat at alarming rates. Most of this is due to development, habitat

fragmentation, and deforestation. For those interested in wildlife, there are things we

can do to help.

The following document serves as a guide to attract species local to Centre County,

Pennsylvania; for example blue jays, American toads, Eastern gray squirrels, and white-

tailed deer to a backyard setting. Homeowners like you can use the simple steps

provided to entice animals to your home. The landscaping guidelines given will not

only make appealing additions to your property, they also act as sources of food, cover,

and water for the animals.

This guide will begin by discussing plants conducive for alluring butterflies. Then the

subject of birds is discussed, including information on bird baths, feeders, nest boxes,

and preferred tree and plant species. The benefits of constructing a pond setting for

amphibian lovers are covered next, followed by a section on mammals. The mammals

section is broken down into squirrels, rabbits, and deer. Important safety tips to keep in

mind while coming into contact with animals are provided, along with guidelines to

prevent animal damages. By applying these guidelines, you'll have animals visiting

your yard in no time.

The tranquility of the outdoors and its inhabitants await you. Happy viewing!!

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Butterflies Creating a Butterfly Garden

Butterflies are beautiful creatures that are easily

overlooked in today's society. They are observed during

the day, especially during July and August when it's

warm. By planting a few preferred plant species for food,

you can enjoy marveling at these insects as they bask in

the sun or flutter past your window.

Getting Started

Begin by making a list of butterflies native to the area that

you'd like to attract to your property. This information

can be obtained from a field guide, such as the National

Audubon Society Field Guide to North American Butterflies.

After choosing the species of interest to you, the most important attractant will be its

favored plant species. Butterflies need nectar plants for the adults to feed on as well as

host plants for the caterpillars to consume. The female must lay her eggs near a host

plant because once the larvae hatch, they cannot move far to find a host plant to feed

on. Some top plants for butterflies are butterfly bush, purple coneflowers, New

England aster, milkweed, and marigolds (1). A list of native Pennsylvania butterfly

species and their preferred host and nectar plants follow in the two charts below:

Species Host Plant

American Snout (Libytheana carinenta) Hackberry

Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia) Plantains, Snapdragons, Gerardias

Hackberry Emperor (Asterocampa celtis) Hackberry

Monarch (Danaus plexippus) Common Milkweed

Mourning Cloak (Nymphalis antiopa) Willow, Aspen, Cottonwood, Elm

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui) Thistle, Hollyhock, Sunflower, Daisy

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) Nettle, False nettle, Pellitory

Red-spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis)

Wild cherry, Oak, Poplar, Hawthorn,

Willow

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Species Nectar Food Species

American Snout (Libytheana carinenta) Dogwood, Aster, Goldenrod

American Lady (Vanessa virginiensis) Butterfly bush, Common milkweed, Privet, White clover, Zinnia

Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia) Globe amaranth, White clover, Mist flower

Monarch (Danaus plexippus) Common milkweed, Late-flowering boneset, Marigold, Zinnia

Painted Lady (Vanessa cardui)

Butterfly bush, Common milkweed, New England Aster, Purple

coneflower

Red Admiral (Vanessa atalanta) Butterfly bush, Marigold, Mist flower, Privet

Red-spotted Purple (Limenitis arthemis) Privet, Poplar

Creating Your Garden

Now that you've secured all your plants, you're ready to begin creating a butterfly

haven. For your own aesthetic purposes, you may want to draw out a landscaping plan

of where to place each component. A good plan to follow is to place perennials in the

back portion of the garden and annuals in front. This makes replacing the annuals each

year easy. Also, provide areas where there are tall plants, medium sized plants, and

shorter plants for variation. If you choose to use pesticides, do so sparingly.

Make sure there are plenty of open sunny areas in your garden. Butterflies are most

active in the sun, flying best when temperatures are in the 70s. Since butterflies are

cold-blooded, they need to bask in the sun to get energy for flight. Provide areas, such

as rocks, for this behavior.

In bad weather, butterflies need to be protected from the elements. Shelter from the

wind can be obtained by planting rows of shrubbery, including Honeysuckle,

Hawthorn, and Spice bush(2). A butterfly house can be purchased or made to add

security as well as serve as a decoration for your home.

Now that you have most of your elements in place, the last thing you need to include is

a water source. Believe it or not butterflies still need to drink! They use the water to get

nutrients such as salts that they don't receive from the nectar sources. You can do

something as easy as dig a shallow puddle or fill a bucket with sand and keep it wet. A

bird bath would work as well- and would attract even more wildlife to your yard!

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Waiting for the Butterflies

If you've provided all the elements discussed, the butterflies

will find all the conditions they need to thrive. Now it's time

to be patient and wait for them to come to you. However, you

could make the experience even more enjoyable by raising

your own butterflies! Butterfly kits come with live caterpillars

which you can grow and release into your garden. If you

chose to do this, follow the instructions and don't release

them into your garden until they've

emerged from the cocoon.

References

(1): www.thebutterflysite.com/gardening.shtml

(2): www.mygreathome.com/outdoors/garden_butterfly.htm

Picture: www.philadelphiareflections.com/topic/65.htm

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Birds

Birds need three elements in a habitat to thrive: food, water, and shelter. These

elements are easily placed into your current backyard setting by implementing bird

feeders, birdbaths, and trees or shrubs that provide adequate cover.

Providing Adequate Food

There are several types of feeders available for birds. For

ground feeding birds including robins, doves, and

cardinals, a platform feeder is best suitable. A hanging or

tube feeder can be hung on a tree or post and will attract

such species as nuthatches, finches, chickadees, and

sparrows. Be sure to clean feeders regularly with a 90%

water and 10% bleach solution (1).

Different types of bird feed will attract different types of

birds. If there are particular species you hope to attract,

pick a bird seed they prefer. Sunflower and safflower seeds

are good for protein and fat and provide energy to the bird.

Mixes of these types of seeds can also be found. Another

alternative is suet bird feed, which is sold in bars or cakes

and is preferred by woodpeckers, nuthatches, chickadees, and titmice. It is important to

be sure when giving food that it is kept in a dry place and not moldy. The chart below

shows types of feed and the species of bird attracted:

Types of Feed Species of Bird Attracted

Sunflower seeds

Cardinals, Bluejays, Chickadees, Nuthatches, Titmice, Gold finch,

House finch, Juncos, Sparrows

Safflower seeds

Cardinals, Finches, Grosbeaks, Chickadees, Song Sparrow,

White-throated Sparrow

Millet House finches, Mourning doves, Juncos, Starlings, Sparrows

Corn

Blue Jays, Mourning doves, Juncos, Starlings, Sparrows

Turkeys, Pheasants, Grouse Information obtained from www.avianweb.com

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Adding a bird feeder to your yard is a great start, but you can also add plants that will

provide food. Evergreens, such as white pine, cedar, spruce, and yew trees provide a

source of berries or seed filled cones. Deciduous plants provide not only a place to

perch, but also seeds, nuts, and berries. Some favorable species are cherry, crabapple,

hackberry, oak, and serviceberry. Also include shrubs of honeysuckle, barberry, and

holly. Certain species, like the hummingbird, are attracted to tubular flowers that can

provide nectar. Have a diverse stand of vegetation present and be aware of when they

are providing seeds, nuts, or berries. The birds need to have food throughout the whole

year!

Species of birds will be around all year as residents, while others will migrate during

the colder months. For the resident birds, such as the black capped chickadee and

house sparrow, winter food should be available beginning early in the fall. The birds

will become dependent on the food source, so feeding must be continued throughout

the winter. For migrating birds, winter migration commences by mid-December and

spring migration begins in mid-February (2).

Accessing a Water Source

It is important to add a clean water source for birds to drink from, whether you choose

to include a birdbath, pond, or water fountain in your plans. "The sound of moving

water is magnetic to most wild birds and will draw them from greater distances for a

cool drink or bath" (3). Water depth should not exceed 3" (4). Make sure the surface of the

water source is constructed with stones, sand, or concrete to ensure good footing.

Placement of water is also key. Many birds prefer

to drink in open areas, where they will be able to

see predators coming. However, if you are aware

that your area is frequently visited by hawks or

other predators, consider moving the water source

closer to cover where the birds can easily escape.

Since you're creating this space for your

enjoyment, put it where you can easily observe

birds from your home.

Make sure you are providing clean water. If using

a bird bath, the water should be changed every

other day and cleaned every 2-3 days as a general

rule. Clean the bird feeder with hot soapy water.

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Incorporating Protection and Cover By planting vegetation such as trees and shrubs, birds have a place to take refuge. The

same species that provide food will also serve for shelter. Plant a diversity of species

for attracting the most birds and focus mainly on native plants to the area that birds are

familiar with and will use.

Birdhouses and nestboxes are also great additions to your plans.

Nest boxes are used by birds for breeding, as many birds are cavity

nesters. Bird houses provide cover and should be placed facing away

from wind and out of direct sunlight. No nesting material or food

should be placed in these structures, unless used by owls, chickadees,

or woodpeckers, where wood chips could be included(1).

References

(1) www.avianweb.com/attractingwildlife.htm

(2) Wood, Merrill. Birds of Central Pennsylvania. Bulletin 632. 1958.

(3) www.birdsforever.com/pg000004.html

(4) Schutz, Walter. How to Attract, House, & Feed Birds. New York: The Bruce

Publishing Company, 1970. Print.

(5) Newton-Cox, Andrew, and Deena Beverley. Making Birdhouses. New York:

Barnes & Noble, Inc., 1997.

Pictures: www.laspilitas.com/garden/howto/western_bluebird_birdbath_2.jpg

http://sunriseseeds.com/images/minimag2.jpg

Place nest

boxes 6 ½ ft.

from the

ground to

keep away

predators (5)

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Amphibians

Frogs, Toads, and Salamanders

There are 22 species of salamanders in

Pennsylvania and many types of frogs and

toads, including the Wood frog, Spring

peeper, Gray tree frog, Green frog, and

American toad. Amphibians are ectotherms

and cannot regulate their body temperature,

causing them to hibernate in the winter and

aestivate when it gets too hot. Many

amphibians spend time both on land and in

water, but their habitats are in decline due to

fragmentation and destruction. The addition of a tranquil pond to your yard can be an

inviting home to these amphibians.

Excavating a Pond

The size of a pond’s reflective surface draws attention from these

creatures. Before beginning to dig out your pond, plan the size that

fits your property- just remember it won’t be noticed if it’s too small.

An average size for a pond is 12 ft long, 6 ft wide, and 1.5 ft deep (1). Placement of a

pond should be on level ground where water will naturally collect. It should also be in

an area with minimal risk to animals that are coming or going, so avoid patches of land

near roads. Also avoid areas that experience run-off because these nutrients can affect

amphibian development if they enter the water. Place a pond at least partially in the

shade to keep algae growth from becoming rampant.

You can begin to excavate your pond whenever the ground is not overly wet or frozen.

While digging, remove rocks and other debris. Once digging has been completed, add

a few inches of sand to the pond bed before putting in a liner. This helps to keep

anything on the bottom from puncturing into the liner.

Choose a sunny day to add the liner to the inside of the newly excavated pond. Place

the liner into the hole and secure it with bricks. Begin to fill it with water, which will

Providing

sloping sides

gives easy

access into

and out of

your pond.

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form the liner to the shape of the pond. Use some of the soil excavated for the pond to

secure the liner (2).

Keep in mind that the pond is most likely to be utilized by frogs, toads, and

salamanders if the water is still or slow moving. In addition, many species cannot

compete well with fish for resources, so if you want amphibians to visit your pond

consider not incorporating fish.

Adding Plants

Allow the pond to warm for a few days before placing any

plants into it. Vegetation is important for cover and as a

substrate for egg attachment. You want to mix a variety of

emergent plants, which are rooted in shallow areas and

exhibit most of their growth above water. Some common

species of plants include cattails and water lilies. You also

want to include submergent plants and floating plants like

duckweed.

Land elements are just as important as water elements for

these species. Add shrubs and water tolerant vegetation

around the pond to allow for increased cover and escape

from predators. Also add logs, leaf litter, and rocks to

provide cover because many will spend more time on land than in the water (3).

Creating a Toad Shelter A fun project you can create yourself is a toad shelter. Drill a hole big enough for a frog

or toad into the side of an upside down clay pot. Have fun decorating these toad

shelters, as they will increase the aesthetics of your pond area. Place these on the land

around your pond, among vegetation.

References

1.) www.sagebug.com/howto/frog-pond.html

2.) Proctor, Noble. Garden Birds. Pennsylvania: Rodale Press, 1985.

3.) www.georgiawildlife.org/document/detail.aspx?docid=145&pageid=1&category=education

Pictures: http://www.eagleponds.com/images/Pond_Plants/CIMG0131.jpg

https://academics.skidmore.edu/wikis/NorthWoods/images/b/b4/Green_frog_in_FRW_c

reated_Pond_JR.jpg

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Mammals

Enticing Squirrels, Rabbits, and Deer

While these animals play an important role in nature, many people view them as

nuisances. Before taking any steps to attract these animals, make sure it is something

that you're interested in. Once being fed, it will be hard to get squirrels to leave; and

you may find that they don't have enough suitable nesting spots in trees, causing them

to sneak into your home and take refuge in your attic or garage. Also, these suggestions

may be expensive- such as planting a food plot for deer. However, providing suitable

habitat for these animals is still rewarding.

Inviting Squirrels

Squirrels can be attracted to seeds that fall on

the ground around bird feeders. These critters

have to eat their body weight each week in food

and can cause havoc on the food you've

supplied for the birds. Provide compressed

corn logs, or purchase a squirrel specific feeder.

There are also bird feeders available that are

squirrel proof. Planting vegetation for cover as

well as food will also attract these animals.

Squirrels like red maples, hickories, hackberry,

and oaks because they prefer fruit and nuts.

Being year round residents, squirrels need plenty of cover. Squirrels like to nest in

trees, so if there is not enough good nesting sites already available, consider adding

nesting boxes. Although meant for birds, squirrels may take residence in boxes made

for birds including American Kestrels, pileated woodpeckers, and wood ducks (1). If

trees are close to your home, pay careful attention to trim any branches that squirrels

could use to jump onto your roof. They may use your gutters to gather nuts and could

find a hole or chimney to enter your house.

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Attracting Rabbits Cottontail rabbits are common throughout the eastern

United States. They are found year round, and are most

active at dawn and dusk. Pay extra close attention from

March- September, when you might catch a glimpse of

baby bunnies, also called kits, timidly munching on

vegetation.

Rabbits eat plants already common in many yards, such

as clover and dandelions. They also consume corn,

soybeans, and wheat. According to H. Lee Stribling, an

Extension Wildlife Scientist and Associate Professor at

Auburn University, "Plant cowbeans and corn during

spring and small grains during fall to provide year-

round forage. If fescue is planted, be sure to use an "endophyte-free" variety, because

other varieties can decrease cottontail reproduction" (2). During the winter, rabbits eat

the buds and bark of plants including birch, oak, maples, blackberry, witch-hazel, and

sumac (3) . Timothy, crabgrass, and bluegrass are other choice plantings.

Rabbits, like other wildlife, also need water and cover. However, water needs are

usually met by the food rabbits consume. Providing brush piles, tall grasses, and

weedy areas serve as adequate cover. Living near agricultural areas where there are

corn fields will also provide necessary nesting sites. Plant thickets of blackberry or

honeysuckle for refuge.

Enticing Deer Those that live near a wooded habitat will be most likely to

entice white-tailed deer. Food plots are a great way to appeal to

deer, especially where the nearby habitat is poor or the food is

scarce (4). Late winter and early spring are the times when deer have the hardest time

finding food, so plant perennials that will still be around during this time. If planting a

food plot is appealing to you, it is suggested that they will be most effective when they

are within a deer's home range, which is approximately 1 square mile (640 acres). Also,

it is important to place your plots at a distance of at least a half mile from roads or

gardens to minimize damages. Some forage species you could plant include corn,

Deer can

browse any

vegetation

under 6 feet in

height

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soybeans, alfalfa, clover, or bromegrass. Preferred species of trees include oaks and

maples. A salt or mineral lick can be set out as well to provide further nutrients.

References

1.) www.avianweb.com

2.) www.aces.edu/pubs/docs/A/ANR-0636

3.) www.mn.nrcs.usda/gov/technical/ecs/wild/cottontail.pdf

4.) www.dgif.virginia.gov/WILDLIFE/deer/plantings.asp

Pictures: http://farm1.static.flickr.com/8/8420793_a3a59e123f.jpg

http://media-2.web.britannica.com/eb-media/44/125644-004-59187306.jpg

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Safety

Precautionary Tips for Interacting with Wild Animals

Whenever encountering wild animals, there are some things to keep in mind. Wild

animals are not pets and should not be approached or tried to be tamed. Below are

some tips to keep in mind when living in close proximity to wild animals:

Protect yourself from diseases. Animals can carry diseases, making

you more susceptible to them with contact. Racoons and groundhogs

such as rabies. Rabbits get ticks and can be a host for Lyme disease.

Although not found in Pennsylvania, Chronic Wasting Disease has been a

problem in deer and other cervids throughout the United States.

Attracting these species may raise your risk of coming into contact with

this disease and others should they appear in the area. Be aware of the

potential risks and check yourself for ticks or other vectors of disease.

Don't approach a sick or injured animal. If an animal needs help,

you can refer it to professionals such as the Centre for Wildlife Care

located locally in Port Matilda.

Remove dead animals. Should a carcass of an animal be seen in your

yard, dispose of it properly. Wear gloves, place the animal in a trash bag

and throw it away or bury it. Then thoroughly wash your hands with hot

soapy water to kill any germs.

Secure trashcans. You will attract more unwanted attention from

animals by making food easily accessible. In addition to the animals

you've already attracted, you may find that raccoons or even bears could

find your home appealing.

Be cautious of animals on the road. Deer should not be attracted to

your property if you live near a major roadway. Deer have contributed to

18,000 collisions from 2004-2005 (1). Drive slowly and be alert if driving in

areas inhabited by deer.

References

1.) Taken from Wildlife and Fisheries Science 310 Lecture notes on September 22,

2009

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Damages

Allowing animals to come within close proximity to your home can result in

disturbances. Rabbits and deer may eat your vegetables and garden plants, and

squirrels may find a way to enter your home. If you've created a habitat conducive to

attracting these animals, there are some ways to limit the damages they may cause:

Erect fences. Fences placed around gardens should be constructed using

posts, or metal wire that is small enough not to allow small animals to

pass through the crevices. If using a mesh fence, which can be effective

for smaller mammals such as rabbits and squirrels, be careful that they

will not become tangled in it. Constructing fences for deer should be at

least six feet high, more desirably eight to ten feet high, so it can not be

jumped over.

Eliminate access to buildings. As previously stated, squirrels will try

and find a way into your home if they do not have adequate nesting sites.

Ways to prevent this include repairing loose siding and shingles, covering

the dryer vent with a vent screen, trimming branches away from the

house, and cleaning gutters at least twice a year.

Place feeders in appropriate areas. The placement of feeders where

they can still be seen but not too close to the home will help to keep

animals further away. Also, including squirrel feeders in addition to bird

feeders and keeping them separate (around 15 feet) will deter squirrels

from damaging the feeder or robbing the birds of their food. Ground

dwelling animals, such as chipmunks, will collect many of the fallen seeds

but won't provide damage to the feeders.

Use Repellants. There are many commercial repellants that can be

purchased to deter unwanted animals from locations in your garden.

Get professional help. If animals continue to cause damages around

your home, it is best to reduce feeding until it is discontinued. If

necessary, call local professionals to remove unwanted animals. For

example, S & S Wildlife Control Services, Inc. in State College can be

reached toll free at 1-866-758-6523.

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Concluding Remarks

Now that you've planted your trees, shrubs, and flowers; erected your bird feeders and

nest boxes; and excavated your pond, all that's left to do is wait. Remember to be

patient while the animals make your home theirs too. Pretty soon you'll enjoy standing

by the window just to catch a glimpse of nature's miracles.

Show off your efforts by certifying your garden with the National Wildlife Federation

as an official wildlife sanctuary. Even your neighbors will notice and be impressed

when they see the yard sign indicating your dedication to conserving the local species!