Over the last half-century, a combination of urbanisation, agriculture, climate change, and pollution has caused major declines of species. In this guest post from PatioAwnings4Less, we take a closer look at some of the UK’s endangered wildlife species — and how we can all play our part in helping them.
In recent years, British wildlife has been in decline. The 2020 WWF: State of Nature report showed a 68% decline in worldwide population sizes of mammals, birds, amphibians, reptiles, and fish between 1970 and 2016.
Biodiversity is fundamental to human life, however, human life threatens biodiversity. Currently, biodiversity is being destroyed at an unprecedented rate.
Since the 1500s more than 133 UK species have become fully extinct within the UK, with many more currently at threat of going extinct. Many of these animals, surprisingly, are ones that you may even find in your garden throughout Britain. These animals include;
Making Your Garden More Wildlife Friendly
Around 87% of UK households have a garden and with a little planning and thinking can provide an abundance of different habitats for endangered UK wildlife without sacrificing any of your garden space. From simple birdhouses to incorporating a little more plant life within your garden, there are many ways you can adapt your garden to offer a home for British wildlife.
Plants are great for attracting wildlife to your garden while also providing a food source for butterflies and moths. While these animals will happily feed on the nectar from most plants, their young may only feed on one or two plant species – for example, brimstone butterflies will only feed and lay eggs on buckthorn bushes. Planting a range of different plants and flowers that flower at different stages of the year is a great way to attract new wildlife and provide a food source for many different species and animals.
Here are some of the best ways you can help wildlife in your garden:
• Grow a Range of Plants
• Add Bird Feeders
• Allow Soil to Settle
• Create Habitats
• Love your Grass
• Trim Bushes at the Best Times
• Consider Offering a Water Source
• Let Wildlife Control the Pests
