Our Backyard Wildlife Habitat
When we first moved into our home, the yard and surrounding woods seemed almost devoid of bird life. Much of the property was covered by pine trees, saw briars and poison ivy. But now it is our retreat where birds, butterflies, dragonflies and damselflies provide year-round pleasure, along with the plants that contribute color and food for wild things.
Our first project that led to this retreat was building a 1.3-acre pond in late 1992. In the next few years we began to convert portions of our yard into beds for native plants -- perennial flowers, bushes and shrubs. These plants provide a generous supply of natural food for birds and butterflies. Along the way we have received certification by the National Wildlife Federation and North Carolina Wildlife Federation as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat. In November 2007 the Raleigh News and Observer ran a story on our habitat.
The entrance to our habitat area
During 2008 we have added to the list of wildlife that our yard has attracted. To date we have 111 species of birds, 57 species of butterflies, 17 species of dragonflies, and 10 species of damselflies. Of course we have our share of rabbits, squirrels, snakes, deer, and even a groundhog or two. (No snake photos; my wife would leave me!)
Our pleasure has been multiplied through a recent interest of mine -- nature photography. Below are links to photos I have taken of the bounty of nature that has taken up residence with us. I have begun with bird photographs, since this was my first love. As I have time, I will develop the other links on this page.
Bees and Wasps
Flowers and Plants
Contact me.
