Connect with nature

Everyone can help the nature on their doorstep. Whether your space is big or small, whether you’re an expert or a complete novice. We’ll help you get started.

We hope you are enjoying our tips on how to make your outdoor space more friendly for nature. Whether you’ve planted wildlife-friendly flowers, dug a pond, made a bee hotel or simply started feeding the birds, there’s one key step not to miss…

Make time to enjoy the wildlife that you’ve helped. After the hard work you’ve put in, you deserve to reap the rewards for your efforts!

You may start spotting which creatures emerge at what time of year and when the last ones disappear. It is a great way of connecting to the rhythm of the seasons, from the first frog spawn of spring to the last butterfly of autumn, from the arrival of winter thrushes to the crescendo of birdsong in spring.

You will likely see fascinating behaviour in the garden. Perhaps Leafcutter Bees bringing green leaf discs to seal their nest tubes, or butterflies tasting plants with their feet to find the right ones on which to lay their eggs (yes, that’s how they do it!).

Regular observation will also allow you to see what is working and what isn’t, offering insight into what you might need to do to make your space even better for wildlife.

Grab the opportunity to learn new things, research the plants and creatures you’ve seen by looking in books and on the web. It doesn’t matter if you can’t put a name to everything – give them your own name if you want!

Take some photos, keep a diary, jot down key sightings on your calendar, get your sketchbook out. You could also encourage the kids and grandkids to do the same – they’re sure to find something you haven’t!

Your newfound familiarity with wildlife is something that you can take into the wider world, helping you see new things in your local park or on walks in the countryside. You will find that your garden is a microcosm of life on a grander scale.

So, wander slowly and look closely. Pull up a deckchair or get down on your belly for an insect’s view of the world. Turn over a leaf or a rock or log. Or just sit in a comfortable armchair and look out of the window.

By finding out about the nature on your doorstep, you can come to an even deeper appreciation of the wonders of wildlife. Plus, you can also relish the warm tingle you’ll get knowing that much of what you see is thanks to your efforts.

Make time to enjoy your outdoor space. Marvel at the flowers you’ve grown. Sit and watch them a while and see what comes to visit.

Enjoy your space at different times of the day and year. Notice the changes and get to know nature’s rhythms.

Take some photos, keep a diary, get your sketchbook out.

Don't forget to keep your garden birds healthy too, by keeping feeders and bird baths clean and tidy.

Thank yourself for helping the nature on your doorstep and making the world a richer place.

This activity is part of Nature On Your Doorstep – our call-to-arms to transform your outdoor space (window boxes welcome!) into a wildlife haven.