B3 Enhancing Habitat

Did you know that your backyard and place of business, with a little enhancement, can expand viable wildlife habitat in Dripping Springs? 
 

Dripping Springs Parks & Community Services is teaming up with Wild Birds Unlimited and the National Wildlife Federation to help achieve our mission by connecting people to their natural resources through expanding wildlife habitats in our community. In the last 50 years the breeding bird population has decreased by nearly 29%; that's a lot less birds! With our help, these bird populations can bounce back. Our objective, through the B3 Program, is to create more habitat and food resources for migrating birds and other pollinators in Dripping Springs and the Texas Hill Country.

What if I don't have a big yard? No worries! You can still join the effort! Any outdoor space can become a wildlife habitat; even just a small balcony or patio. To certify your space ensure that your habitat includes the following:

 1. Food
Include native plants in your yard that provide natural food sources for local birds. You can also use bird feeders with a quality seed blend to attract a larger variety of birds to your yard and supplement natural food sources.

 2. Water
All animals need clean, reliable water sources to survive. Water sources, used for drinking and bathing, can come in many forms; creeks, ponds, fountains, or even just a clean dish of water will do.

3. Cover
Wildlife need protection from the elements as well as predators. Use natural landscaping and native plants in your yard to provide a safe place for wildlife to rest and retreat.

4. A Place to Raise Young
It is becoming increasingly difficult for birds to mate, build nests, and raise their young. By providing bird houses or other nesting boxes, birds can safely raise their young and help increase the depleting bird populations.

5. Sustainable Practices
Maintaining your landscape using sustainable, environmentally-friendly practices ensures that your habitat remains a clean and healthy place for wildlife to live.

How do I get involved?

1. Visit the National Wildlife Federation (NWF) to learn more about creating a Certified Wildlife Habitat.
2. Download the NWF's Garden Certification Walk-through Checklist
3. Certify your habitat to help wildlife through the Nation Wildlife Federation. A $20 application fee supports the NWF's programs and local wildlife.
4. Submit your Certification to the B3 Program with a picture of your habitat. Get your habitat featured on our webpage and social media!
5. Bring your submission receipt to your local Wild Birds Unlimited storefront to receive your free gift and exclusive in-store discount!

What are the benefits?

• Replenish lost habitat for local and migratory wildlife.
• Beautify your outdoor spaces with native plant species and sustainable practices.
• Create community through collaborative love and care for the natural world around us.

Resources:
Certify Your Habitat Today! Visit: www.nwf.org/certify
Wild Birds Unlimited is here to help! Learn more Online at our Local Store Wild Birds Unlimited or Shop Online!
Need some helpful gardening tips? - Consult our Local Experts!
https://www.3billionbirds.org/findings