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Backyard Wildlife Habitat


Make your backyard come alive!


Your yard may be home to 15 migratory birds, 20 native plant species, five kinds of butterflies, and enough wildlife to make you think you are on a safari.

This isn't your yard, you say? Well it could be. It's easy, and it doesn't matter where you live or even how much space you have.

The Backyard Wildlife Habitat™ program, conducted through a partnership between the Delaware Nature Society and the National Wildlife Federation, provides official certification for properties that meet four criteria necessary for wildlife habitat: food, water, cover, and places for wildlife to raise young. Property owners also implement resource conservation practices.

Through the program, you can receive FREE technical assistance from Delaware Nature Society Habitat Stewards to help evaluate your property and find ways to attract wildlife and help water quality.

Why create a Backyard Wildlife Habitat?
  • Improve water quality
  • Help biodiversity conservation
  • Save money
    Read More . . .

  • Now, Take the Next Step!
    It's easy! Click link to find out how to Certify Your Landscape.

    Help others! Be a Backyard Habitat Steward
    By fostering a sense of ecological awareness and responsibility in children and adults alike, Habitat Stewards make a difference in Delaware. Mentors in the community, Habitat Stewards assist their friends and neighbors with the creation and restoration of landscapes that are both wildlife-friendly and good for the environment. Click here to read more . . .

    Want information on gardening, native plants, wildlife, and more? Click here! Learn about the Delaware Nature Society's annual Native Plant Sale. Click here!


    Water Wise Gardening
    The Delaware Nature Society and United Water are partnering together to help Delawareans implement water wise practices in their backyard gardens. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, 30% - 60% of urban fresh water is used each year to water lawns. By checking United Water's Evapotranspiration - or E.T. Index - you can be sure that you are maintaining a water wise lawn.


    Reducing the size of turf areas and replacing them with native plant gardens is a great way to conserve water resources. Because native plants are adapted to local climatic conditions, they require less water than non-natives. Homeowners can also collect roof runoff in rain barrels attached to their downspouts to water lawn and garden areas or create rain gardens comprised of water loving plants to collect runoff and allow it to slowly infiltrate. Click here for additional water conservation info.
    © 2009 Delaware Nature Society, PO Box 700, Hockessin, DE 19707 (302) 239-2334             E-mail Us!