We know that our members are constantly working to protect wildlife on their doorstep. This spring we hear from member, Niall who has divided his garden into segments to create a mosaic of habitats for local wildlife. Niall has let sections of his garden grow wild, starting off by planting some native hedging and wildflowers. Flowers currently emerging include Snake's Head Fritillary, Bluebells, Marsh Marigold and many more. He now only cuts the grass twice a year, helping with seed dispersal by collecting seeds and spreading them throughout his garden.

 "In reality, it self-seeds itself and I don't have to do much!"- Niall

Having previously needing to frequently cut, weed and feed the grass the garden now needs less regular management. The only regular management is to remove Willow and Birch saplings before they get established. Niall has several tree species adding to the layers of his garden which is important for diverse habitats. The garden boasts a beautiful display of Southern March Orchids orchids starting at 10 flowering in the first year now reaching over 100 in number! The garden also features an active pond with frogs, dragonflies and newts living in its watery depths. He has also erected bird nest boxes regularly used by Blue Tits and has mounted Swift next boxes in an attempt to help this threatened species. The list of visiting bird species has reached 32 and in addition his wildlife camera has captured, mice, Foxes and even a Hedgehog using the garden at night.

The garden has drawn a host of insects, currently at 60 species and counting! In the UK alone we have more than 27,000 insect species; grasshoppers, bees, silverfish, caddisflies, beetles, dragonflies, mayflies, moths and more. Insects play a key role in our environment, with a third of our food crops pollinated by insects and many animals relying on insects as a source of food they must be protected. 

To reverse the decline of insects and allow them to thrive once more, The Wildlife Trusts want to see at least 30% of land and seas properly connected, better protected and suitably managed for nature. To achieve this, it requires us all to become insect champions, taking action at home and work, in our communities and schools. With members like Niall taking action, we hope to see a reverse in declines. 

You can take further action for nature by logging your sightings! Last September Niall had a very exciting visitor to his garden. The Wasp Spider is a great mimic - looking just like a common wasp keeps it safe from predators, even though it is not dangerous itself. This was logged on the LERC and the British Arachnological society system. The LERC app enables members of the public to get involved with biological recoding, contributing to national data sets and supporting conservation. 

Niall's garden is a perfect example of what you can do for nature on your doorstep. It’s not all about the wildlife as he still has room for growing fruit, veg and herbaceous borders as well as plenty of room for family and friends to sit out and enjoy the garden thus highlighting the fact that a wildlife garden can fit in well with other types of gardening - it’s not a case of one thing or another.

I am thrilled by the life that thrives in the garden". - Niall Reynolds

By letting your lawn grow and planting native species you can do wonders for the amazing amphibians and incredible insects that are just waiting for a home near you. If you are taking action for wildlife in any shape or form then add yourself to our Team Wilder Actions Map today or get in touch with our Wilder Engagement Officer, Marianne at m.evans@welshwildlife.org. For more information on what actions you can take small or large head to our Take Action for Nature webpage for some inspiration.