Attract native birds and bugs to your backyard

If you’re looking to make your backyard more enviro-friendly while contributing to local conservation efforts, attracting native birds and beneficial insects is a fantastic place to start. New Zealand is home to an incredible variety of unique species, many of which are under threat due to habitat loss and introduced predators. By creating an eco-conscious space for native wildlife, you can help support their populations while enjoying the wonders of nature right in your backyard.

Here are some creative and simple DIY ideas to attract native birds, bugs, and wildlife to your garden.

Birdfeeders: A simple way to support our feathered friends

Who will visit? Native birds like the tūī, kererū (New Zealand wood pigeon), piwakawaka (fantail), and silvereye (waxeye) are all common visitors to birdfeeders.

DIY instructions:

• Simple seed feeder: Use a clean, empty toilet paper roll. Spread peanut butter over the outside, then roll it in birdseed until coated. Hang it on a tree branch using a piece of twine.
• Pinecone seed feeder: As above but using a pinecone instead of toilet roll. Heat the pinecone in the oven for a short time to open it up. Then hold it upside down and put the peanut butter in the recesses before coating with wild birdseed.
• Hanging platform feeder: Take a shallow tray (like an old saucer or large lid) and attach some twine to the edges to hang it from a tree. Fill with a mixture of sunflower seeds, peanuts, and other bird-friendly foods. Keep it in a sheltered spot to protect the birds from predators like cats.

What to feed? Native birds in New Zealand often feed on nectar, seeds, and fruits. For tui and bellbirds, you can offer sugar water or nectar (see below for nectar feeders). Avoid feeding birds bread or processed foods, as they can be harmful.

Nectar feeders: For the colourful birds and buzzy bees

Who will visit? Tūī, korimako (bellbirds), and even kaka (forest parrots) are attracted to nectar feeders. You might also get visits from honeybees and other beneficial pollinators.

DIY Instructions:

• Simple nectar feeder: Mix 1 part sugar to 4 parts water and gently heat until the sugar dissolves (do not use honey, as it can spread diseases). Pour into a clean, reused bottle or jar and attach it to a tree using twine. To create a feeding platform, drill a few small holes near the bottom of the bottle to allow birds to access the nectar.
• Alternative feeder: A plastic or wooden flower-shaped feeder with small cups can hold nectar and attract both birds and insects.

What to feed? In addition to homemade nectar, native birds will love fresh flowers like pōhutukawa, flax, and kowhai. These plants provide natural nectar sources that support native pollinators like bees and moths.

Bug hotels: A haven for pollinators

Who will visit? Bug hotels are perfect for attracting solitary native bees, ladybugs, lacewings, wētā and praying mantises. These critters are vital for pollination and pest control.

DIY instructions:

• Basic bug hotel: Gather some untreated wooden logs or branches. Drill a variety of small holes (5–10mm wide) into them to create nesting spaces for solitary bees. You can also fill a small box or container with materials like pinecones, straw, or bamboo sticks. Hang or place your bug hotel in a sunny spot near native flowers.
• Wētā motel: Build your wētā motel from bamboo or wood and choose a dry, dark location. The entrance and exit tunnels should be large enough for wētā to crawl into but small enough that a mouse cannot. Tie the wētā motel to a tree trunk or post, and place it in a shady location at about eye-level
• Create a leaf pile: Instead of discarding autumn leaves, pile them in a corner of your garden. This will provide shelter for beetles, spiders, and other beneficial insects.

Why it matters: By providing a safe space for pollinators like native bees, you’re supporting biodiversity and improving the health of your garden.

Birdbaths: Clean water for feathered friends

Who will visit? Native birds such as fantails, tūī, and pīwakawaka love a refreshing bath, especially during hot weather. Birds will also use it to drink, so it’s an essential addition to any wildlife-friendly garden.

DIY instructions:

• Shallow birdbath: Find a shallow bowl or dish (a large plant saucer works well) and place it in a location where birds feel safe but can easily access it. Keep the water clean by changing it regularly, and add small pebbles to the bottom to give birds a place to stand.
• Hanging bath: If you prefer to keep things off the ground, you can hang a small shallow container from a tree branch.

Why it matters: Birds need access to fresh water not just for drinking but for bathing to keep their feathers clean. A birdbath can also provide a sanctuary for many insects, helping to support an ecosystem in your garden.

Bee feeders: Help protect our pollinators

Who will visit? Native bees, honeybees and bumblebees are frequent visitors to bee feeders. By creating a bee-friendly environment, you’re supporting the local ecosystem.

DIY instructions:

• Bee-friendly nectar mix: Mix 1 part sugar to 2 parts water (without boiling it) and place it in a shallow dish. Add a few rocks or twigs for the bees to land on.
• Bee hydration station: Many Kiwi beekeepers don’t like the idea of putting netctar out for bees (“open feeding”) because it can encourage robbing behaviour (when honeybees raid other hives, which in turn can spread disease). So, an alternative is to create a simple shallow drinking dish of fresh water. Remember to add pebbles so the bees don’t drown.
• DIY bee hotel: You can create a simple bee hotel using bamboo sticks or rolled-up paper tubes. Position it in a sheltered, sunny spot to encourage bees to nest.

Why it matters: Native bees are crucial pollinators for many native plants, and their populations are under threat. By providing food and shelter for them, you can play a direct role in supporting New Zealand’s ecological balance.

Additional tips for attracting native wildlife:

• Plant native trees and shrubs: In addition to feeders, planting native trees like rimu, kahikatea, and totara will help create habitat for both birds and insects.
• Minimise chemicals: Avoid pesticides and herbicides, as they can harm both birds and beneficial insects. Opt for natural pest control methods like encouraging ladybugs and other insect-eating species.
• Create a wildlife corridor: If you have a farm or large property, try to create a natural corridor with native plants that will allow wildlife to move freely between different parts of your property and into the wider ecosystem.
• Protect from predators: To help native birds and wildlife we need to minimise the impact of pests like rats, mice, stoats, and feral cats. Visit Predator Free NZ Trust to learn more about targeting pests and trapping.

Attracting native birds and insects to your backyard not only supports local wildlife but also creates a space that’s rich in biodiversity and beauty. Each bird, bee, and bug that visits plays an essential role in maintaining the health of our environment. With just a little effort and creativity, you can turn your garden into an eco sanctuary.