The Acorn

Residential Property Named Wildlife Site, By Sylvie Belmond (belmond@theacorn.com)
Nidia and Ed property in Agoura Hills was recently recognized as an official National Wildlife Federation (NWF) Backyard Wildlife Habitat site. Their property attracts a variety of birds, butterflies and other wildlife while helping to protect the local environment, said the organization. "Little things can make a big difference," said Nidia, who enjoys watching the visitors from her kitchen window. But offering a wild sanctuary doesn’t mean giving up one’s backyard. The couple still has a pool with a deck, lush roses and even a small vegetable garden, which is shielded so the deer don’t eat all the goodies. When they moved into their Agoura home seven years ago, Ed and Nidia were amazed by the local wildlife, which is being displaced by increasing development. So they created a backyard that’s friendly to the visitors. "It took very little effort on our part and it’s very rewarding. It’s like living in a park." To make their yard wildlife-friendly, the couple introduced plants that animals can use for shelter, and they put out bird feeders. When feeders attract little birds, hawks are also attracted, so it’s imperative to have a bush or tree near the feeder so the little birds can hide if a hawk attacks, explained Nidia. The couple also supply water when needed and furnish shelter for the young. "It’s also recommended you offer a place where animals can raise their young," said Nidia, noting that small animals like to go underneath her deck. Deer like to come during the dry season to feed on trees. "They also like roses. This was unintended, but it’s like an exquisite dish for them," she said. Their house borders Malibu Creek State Park in Liberty Canyon. According to the NWF, "Any habitat enthusiast can create a backyard habitat and learn the rewards of gardening for wildlife." Habitat restoration is critical in urban and suburban settings where commercial and residential development encroaches on natural wildlife areas. The NWF program teaches the importance of environmental stewardship by providing basic guidelines for making landscapes more hospitable to wildlife. Nidia and Ed are both engineers and they enjoy their backyard in a special way because it is in harmony with the nature that surrounds them… For more information about getting certified and tips on backyard habitats visit: Backyard Wildlife	SYLVIE BELMOND/Acorn Newspapers MAKING ROOM FOR WILDLIFE Nidia and Ed’s backyard in Liberty Canyon has been designated as an official Backyard Wildlife Habitat site. They enjoy watching wildlife, and they offer shelter and food for the birds and animals that visit from Malibu Creek State Park