How to Create a Backyard Wildlife Habitat in Southern California

A wildlife garden starts with four essentials: food, water, shelter and places to reproduce.

Use native plant structure

Layer trees, shrubs, flowering perennials, grasses and groundcovers. Include berries, seeds, nectar and host plants.

Allow some natural complexity

Leaf litter, logs, rocks, seed heads and small undisturbed areas can provide habitat that a completely sterile yard lacks.

Manage responsibly

Design habitat so it remains compatible with fire safety, structures, pets and human use.

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