Page 35 Fall Home & Garden | September 2023 Lincoln Daily News Hang a bird feeder or set out shallow food dishes to provide wildlife with food. The Total Pond Blog says, “Following these guidelines will attract a variety of wildlife to your own backyard. You will not only be able to view and observe new and beautiful types of life but also be providing safety, food, and shelter.” Repelling bad wildlife Though you may want to attract certain wildlife, there is other wildlife you will want to keep away from your property. An article on ways to keep critters aways from your home provides several helpful tips. For example, when trying to repel bad wildlife, fences can be one of the most useful ways to keep them away. However, since installing fences can be costly, that may not be a feasible solution. Cleaning up food in your yard or on your patio as soon as you are done eating will help keep mice and other critters away. Buying safe animal repellents and sprinkling, spraying or placing them around your property or house is another way to keep problem wildlife away. Use wind chimes or noisy lawn ornaments to scare animals away. Make sure you are keeping your yard clean. As the article on keeping critters away says, “Creatures often burrow or hide in piles of wood, overgrown weeds, or accumulated debris where they can nest, hole, and ultimately make into living spaces.” When you clean your yard, you are more likely to keep bad wildlife away. Though bird feeders can attract birds, they can also attract squirrels and mice. In these cases, it is better not to use a bird feeder. Find holes in your siding or attic where mice and other rodents can access your home and seal those holes. Make natural repellents such as dehydrated garlic, garlic water or hot pepper sauce combined with water and dish soap. The Illinois Extension offers other helpful tips for repelling wildlife. For instance, since fencing may be expensive, Extension Energy and Environment Educator Continued --
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