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Birds and wildlife

A to Z of a Wildlife Garden
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Patio

Illustration of patio

Chris Shields

Habitat

At first it may seem that a patio is devoid of wildlife. But look again, you may be surprised at what you find.

If it is sunny, butterflies may be basking and few patios are ant-free. At night many insects will be drawn to lit windows, which in turn attract predators such as other insects and bats.

If you grow plants in pots and containers, insects and birds will visit for the flowers and seeds, and small creatures may be sheltering in the cool and damp underneath.

Make the most of your garden

  • Plant plenty of pots with native species as these attract more wildlife. Many plants, bulbs and small shrubs will grow happily in a container if fed and watered regularly.
  • Make a mini pond in a water-tight tub. You’ll see lots of interesting insects.
  • Allow some plants to grow in the cracks. It will soften hard lines and will be good for creepy crawlies.      

Insects may hibernate in patio pots. Try not to tidy up dead stems and seed heads until spring.