Wild About Nature? Get Your Yard Certified

The North American bird population has decreased by 2.9 billion breeding adults, a net loss of 29% over the last half-century.* Scientists have identified habitat loss as the biggest reason for the decline. Wild Birds Unlimited is proud to be the Champion for the National Wildlife Federation Certified Wildlife Habitat program, whose goal is to inspire everyone to create a haven for wildlife in their yard.

Anyone can create a welcoming haven for local wildlife. In fact, wildlife habitat gardens support twice as much wildlife as conventional lawns and non-native plant gardens. Turning your yard, balcony container garden or work landscape into a Certified Wildlife Habitat to attract birds, butterflies, and other neighborhood wildlife is fun, easy, and can make a lasting difference. Here is what your wildlife habitat should include:
 
Food: Native plants provide food eaten by a variety of wildlife. Feeders can supplement natural food sources.
 
Water: All animals need water to survive, and some need it for bathing or breeding as well.
 
Cover: Wildlife need places to take shelter from bad weather and places to hide from predators or hunt for prey.
 
Places to Raise Young: Wildlife need resources to reproduce, and to protect and nourish their young.
 
Sustainable Practices: Maintain your yard or garden in natural ways to ensure soil, air, and water stay healthy and clean.
 
Certify your space to show your commitment to wildlife. It’s easier than you might think. Wild Birds Unlimited is a Champion Sponsor of the NWF Certified Wildlife Habitat Program. Visit the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) site to learn more about creating a Certified Wildlife Habitat. There is a small application fee that will help the NWF in their efforts to protect wildlife and habitats. You will receive a certificate and have an opportunity to buy a sign or plaque to display in your habitat.