WildlifeHabitat Make a home for birds, butterflies, and nature's other creatures. In your backyard Habitat is a combination of food, water,shelter,and space arranged to meet the needs of wildlife.Even a small yard can be landscaped to attract birds,butterflies,beneficial insects,and small animals.Trees, shrubs,and other plants provide shelter and food for wildlife. The plants you use for food and cover will help determine the wildlife species attracted to your backyard.Nesting boxes,feeders,and watering sites can be added to improve the habitat. Planning your wildlife habitat Planning is necessary for attractive and productive wildlife habitat.You have both a horizontal area to work with--the size of your lot--as well as a vertical area that stretches from your soil to the treetops.The vertical area is composed of the canopy formed by the tallest tree branches;under- story vegetation consisting of smaller trees,shrubs,and vines;the floor which is often dominated by low- growing groundcovers;and the base- ment where a variety of organisms exist in the soil.Different wildlife species live in each of these zones, so numerous habitats can be provid- ed on a small piece of land. Trees and shrubs are the backbone of any landscaping design and are important for wildlife shelter.Many tree and shrub species are excellent sources of food for wildlife.Proper selection of plant material can meet both the aesthetic needs of the homeowner and the food and shelter needs of wildlife.Remember that you are part of the habitat! is a cooperative project of: USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service National Association of Conservation Districts Wildlife Habitat Council April 1998 The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its programs and activities on the basis of race, color, national origin, gender, religion, age, disability, political beliefs, sexual orientation, and marital or family status. (Not all prohibited bases apply to all programs.) Persons with disabilities who require alternative means for communication of program information (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should contact USDAs TARGET Center at 202-720-2600 (voice and TDD). To file a complaint of discrimination, write USDA, Director, Office of Civil Rights, Room 326W, Whitten Building, 14th and Independence Avenue, SW, Washington, DC 20250- 9410 or call (202) 720-5964 (voice or TDD). USDAis an equal opportunity provider and employer. One in a series of 10 tip sheets on backyard conservation Backyard Conservation To attract wildlife to your backyard, choose and plant the trees, shrubs, and plants that offer the food and shelter that those species of wildlife need to survive.  Add a water source, too.