In cooperation with the National Wildlife Federation, Milton Outdoor Classrooms is starting a project to turn Milton into a community habitat for birds and butterflies. We invite you to join us in this important effort by creating a habitat in your backyard. The best plants for habitats are native plants (plants that are originally from this area). They require less water and maintenance than other exotic species because they are naturally adapted to our environment. So everybody wins—the birds, the butterflies, and you!

Creating a backyard habitat is easy and really fun! Here’s how:

• The existing plants that might provide food (such as acorns, nuts, berries, seeds, buds, or nectar) for wildlife,
• Birdfeeders,
• Birdbaths or other water sources,
• Plants that provide shelter (such as dense shrubs, evergreens, brush piles), and
• Places for birds and wildlife to raise their young (trees, shrubs, birdhouses).

The map does not have to be fancy or extremely detailed, and is a fun way to become more familiar with your space.

2.     Think about what types of birds and butterflies you want to attract to your yard. Research the types of plants and trees that will attract them (i.e., provide food, shelter, and/or places to raise young). The National Wildlife Federation’s (NWF’s) Backyard Habitat web site (www.nwf.org/backyardwildlifehabitat) and the Milton Outdoor Classrooms web site are good places to start.

3.     If you don’t have them already, plant some of your favorite wildflowers, shrubs, and/or trees that will attract wildlife and provide food, shelter, and places to raise young.

4.     Make sure that your backyard has a year-round source of water. This can be as simple as the bottom of a clay pot (for the summer) and a basic heated birdbath for the frigid winter months.

5.     Get certified as an official NWF Backyard Habitat (see the NWF web site for the certification application) and watch the birds and butterflies enjoy your efforts!