From our butterflies to our bumblebees, our robins to our hedgehogs, the United Kingdom
is home to millions of animals.
But habitat loss is threatening our wildlife, with nearly two-thirds of species in decline.
The UK has an estimated 16 million gardens.
Together, they cover an area larger than all its nature reserves.
A garden is one area we all have control over.
All gardens are good for wildlife, but there are many things you can do to make your garden
even better.
Just being a little less tidy makes a world of difference.
By leaving a patch of grass to grow long, you can create a mini jungle, providing shelter
for some and rich pickings for others.
Introducing more flowers rich in pollen and nectar will attract the attention of some
very useful animals, bees, butterflies and other pollinators vital to our environment
and to the food we grow, but their populations are decreasing rapidly.
Ensuring there are flowers throughout the year will not only attract them to your garden,
but help stop their demise.
Replacing a fence with a living border provides homes and food for many insects and birds.
Though hedges do need cutting occasionally, make sure to wait until the fledglings have
flown the nest and cut after August.
Trees are a multi-story haven for wildlife.
If your garden is too small for big trees, try and get some planted in the neighbourhood
and protect those that are already there.
They provide a variety of habitats, from the damp, shady conditions below, to the lichen
covered bark and the leafy canopy above.
A pair of blue tits needs 10,000 caterpillars and other insects to raise a single brood
of young, and trees make it a lot easier for them to find food.
Adding a pond to your garden provides a rich, watery habitat.
Big or small, ponds will attract wildlife.
Just make sure the edges are shallow so that animals can get out.
Leaving a pile of dead wood in a shady spot can create a perfect environment for fungi,
beetles, woodlice and many other tiny decomposers.
These teeps aren't only a way to recycle waste, but another great home for wildlife.
From large animals, to insects and fungi, to creatures too small to see like bacteria
and other microbes, which are crucial to the whole ecosystem.
By looking after the small things, in turn you're helping the bigger picture, keeping
the UK full of the wildlife we love.
So remember, don't be too tidy and leave some areas undisturbed.
By keeping a wild patch in your garden, there will be fewer jobs to do and more time to
enjoy what's there.
Let's work together to create a patchwork of biodiverse habitats across the UK.
Our precious wildlife needs our help, so start your wild patch today.
Visit the website to find out more about the Wild Patch Project and tips for getting started.
