Local nature group, Wildlife Friendly Otley and Otley 2030 have launched a campaign to encourage residents to make their gardens more wildlife friendly. It is asking people across the town to help by answering a short questionnaire, so it can build a map of where people in Otley are already doing great things for wildlife, and where it can do more.
By completing the questionnaire people will help the campaign and also receive a FREE packet of nectar-rich seeds to grow more flowers to attract insects! Even if you only have window boxes, or a few pots, you can get still get involved and help wildlife! The questionnaire is available on the group’s website at www.wildlifefriendlyotley.org.uk/wildlifeingardens
where there is also more information and an instruction video on how to attract wildlife to gardens.
“Our gardens, no matter how small, are vital as a source of food, water and shelter for birds and insects and small mammals,” said River Six an ecologist and secretary of Wildlife Friendly Otley who is running the survey. “Too much of our countryside and fields are no-go areas for wildlife because of pesticides and herbicides. Gardens are a lifeline for creatures, which some species have to come to rely on.”
“There have been huge declines in all manner of wildlife in the last 50 years and this is one area of practical action where individuals can make a difference. You don’t have to have specialist knowledge and attracting wildlife has its own rewards. There’s something very special about starting to see birds, bees, butterflies or frogs outside your own home – it brings people a lot of joy and connects you with nature which is proven to help a sense of wellbeing.”
Wildlife Friendly Otley is aiming to get a source of food, shelter and water for wildlife into most of Otley’s gardens by 2030. Using its Wildlife Pledge campaign as a leaping off point, it is offering free advice and guidance for the people of Otley to open up their gardens to wildlife. More information is available at www.wildlifefriendlyotley.org.uk or by emailing: wildlifefriendlyotley@gmail.com
