How To Help Your Local Wildlife During Spring

Spring is such a beautiful season, full of blooming flowers, chirping birds, and lively wildlife. It’s a time when many animals emerge from their winter hibernation, start to find a mate and begin to nest; during this time the local wildlife is also seen out and about a lot looking for food. 

Although spring is gorgeous, many human activities can have a detrimental impact on local wildlife during this season. Fortunately for us, there are things that we can do to help support local wildlife and minimise the harmful impact on the plants and animals that live in your area. In this blog post, we’ll explore some easy ways you can make a difference and help your local wildlife thrive.

So if you’re ready to start making some changes and learning how to help your local wildlife in spring, keep reading.

Create a Wildlife Friendly Garden

Firstly, one of the easiest ways to help your local wildlife is to create a garden that provides food, shelter, and nesting opportunities for bugs, birds, and small animals. Don’t be discouraged if you fear you do not have enough outdoor space for this as even a small balcony can be turned into a wildlife haven. By planting native flowers and shrubs that provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, you’ll attract beneficial insects to your garden.

If you have the room, put up bird feeders (or make your own birdfeeders with your kids) and nesting boxes for birds, and leave some areas of your garden untidy for hedgehogs, toads, and other small mammals to use as shelter.

There are many benefits to having a wildlife friendly garden. Not only does it provide a habitat for local wildlife, but it also creates a beautiful and peaceful environment for you to enjoy. Plus, by planting native plants, you’ll be helping to maintain biodiversity and support the local ecosystem. For more tips on encouraging local wildlife to visit your garden, check out this post: Top Tips To Encourage More Wildlife To Visit Your Garden.

Reduce Chemical Use

Chemicals like pesticides and herbicides can harm wildlife and the environment. Consider using organic alternatives or find natural ways to manage pests and weeds. For example, companion planting can help repel pests naturally by attracting the ‘pests’ to companion plants instead of the plants you wish to grow for consumption. By reducing the amount of chemicals you use, you can help protect the bees, butterflies, and other insects that play a vital role in our ecosystems.

In addition, reducing chemical use can also benefit your health and the health of your family. Many pesticides and herbicides are toxic and can cause respiratory problems, skin irritation, and other health issues.

Support Local Wildlife Conservation Organisations

There are many local wildlife conservation organisations that work to protect and preserve wildlife in your area. If you want to help your local wildlife, you could consider supporting them by volunteering your time or making a donation. These organisations often have opportunities for you to get involved in habitat restoration, monitoring wildlife populations, and educating the public about conservation. For those in Hampshire and the Isle Of Wight, you can visit the Hampshire Wildlife Trust website for more information on how to get involved.

By supporting these organisations, you’ll be helping to ensure that local wildlife is protected and preserved for future generations. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn more about the wildlife in your area and get involved in conservation efforts.

Reduce Your Plastic Use

Plastic pollution is a serious threat to wildlife. Many animals mistake plastic for food and can become seriously injured or die as a result. To reduce your plastic use, consider using reusable bags, water bottles, and straws. When you do use plastic, make sure to dispose of it properly.

You can also do your bit to help reduce plastic pollution by participating in local beach cleanups or litter picks in your neighbourhood. If there aren’t any on, you can always take the lead and organise one yourself. By removing plastic waste from beaches and other natural areas, you’ll be helping to protect wildlife from the harmful effects of plastic pollution.

Be a Responsible Pet Owner

Pets can have a significant impact on local wildlife. Keep your pets under control, especially during nesting season, to prevent them from disturbing wildlife. Consider keeping your cat indoors, as they can be a significant threat to birds and small mammals. When walking in wooded areas, it’s best to keep dogs on lead to minimise the risk of them disturbing deer, birds, and other local wildlife.

In addition, make sure to dispose of pet waste properly. Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can be harmful to wildlife and humans alike. By disposing of pet waste properly, you’ll be helping to protect the environment and wildlife in your area.

Final thoughts on how to help your local wildlife in spring.

In conclusion, there are many simple ways you can help your local wildlife thrive this spring. By creating a wildlife friendly garden, reducing chemical use, supporting local conservation organisations, reducing your plastic use, and being a responsible pet owner, you can make a difference in your community.

If you found this article helpful, please feel free to share it using the buttons below, or drop a comment. You may also be interested in the following blog posts:

How To Help Your Local Wildlife In Winter

How To Build A Bug Hotel Using Your Recycling

Kids Recycled Toilet Roll Bird Feeders & Easy DIY Cookie Cutter Bird Feeders

Summer Garden Minibeast Hunt (Free Printable)