What Wildlife Needs to Survive
All wildlife species have specific needs to stay alive. But in general, they all need the same four basic things.
Food
Every animal has specific foods it prefers, no matter what else is around. Some plants offer more nutrition than others, and food availability changes with the seasons. That’s why both the quality and amount of food matter.
Water
All animals need water. Some have access to water year-round (like lakes or streams), while others rely on dew, snow, or moisture in plants—sources that change depending on the weather or time of year. Be sure your habitat includes a steady water source.
Shelter (Cover)
Wildlife needs places to hide, sleep, nest, and move around safely. Cover might come from trees, shrubs, tall grasses, rocks, or burrows.
Space
Animals need enough room to avoid overcrowding. When space is tight, animals compete for food, water, and cover. Each area can only support a certain number of animals, depending on the resources.
When these needs are met, wildlife can thrive. But if one of these things is missing or limited, it becomes what’s called a limiting factor—something that keeps the population smaller or more spread out.
Tips for Creating a Wildlife-Friendly Landscape
- Plant trees and shrubs that provide food like seeds, berries, or fruit—especially ones that keep fruit through winter. Good choices include dogwoods, chokecherry, and ninebark.
- Replant disturbed land to bring wildlife back to the area.
- Build living fences by planting shrubs, trees, or vines along property edges. These help with soil health and offer shelter and food.
- Use layers by planting groundcovers, shrubs, and tall trees together. This gives animals more types of shelter.
- Include conifers like pines or cedars. They offer important winter protection.
- Keep livestock out of wildlife areas by using fences.
- Leave food plots standing in fall and avoid plowing until later to give animals extra food and shelter.
Why It Matters
Creating wildlife-friendly plantings not only helps animals survive—it can also:
- Make your land more beautiful
- Support natural pest control
- Bring in wildlife you enjoy watching
If you have questions or want help, contact your local forestry commission for advice on woodland management and tree planting.
