‘Wild About Penarth | Gwyllt am Benarth’ was hosted by three presenters, named Sally, Elen and Hilary, who shared some notable methods for helping wildlife thrive in gardens.
The event was organised by GPG Penarth (Green Park Group Penarth) and Penarth Growing Community.
Taking place on Monday, May 12, the hosts presented to the public about ways they could incorporate wildlife-friendly actions in their gardens.
For those wishing to get involved, RSPB, Wildlife Trusts, and Vale Nature Partnership offer a wide range of activity guides, which can be found via their websites.
These activities range from providing food and shelter for wildlife – such as by leaving areas wild, planting plants such as sunflowers – to actively joining biodiversity awareness projects like the RSPB, Woodland Trusts, and supporting local parks.
Experts say a combination of lawn, trees, and shrubs, flowers, and water feature will attract wildlife.
However, some wildlife are said to be able to thrive in flowers or ‘weeds’ along the edge of tarmac, garden containers, gutter gardens, and green roofs.
Ponds are also considered to be one of the best ways to support wildlife, and are especially beneficial for keeping clean and topped up.
Alongside this, low bowls can be used for hedgehogs, while shallow edges and stones are perfect for bees to indulge in fresh water.
However, artificial garden lights should be avoided, as well as tarmac or too much hard standing, as it’s important for smaller animals to seek protection from predators.
Most importantly, artificial habitats are less desirable for many species.
Therefore, a few bushes, trees, shrubs, or a patch of grass may attract a few beetles and butterflies.
It is also beneficial to avoid or minimise the use of chemicals in the garden and, when possible, use hand tools, as pesticides and insecticides are extremely harmful to insects, birds, and mammals.
Mammals can die after ingesting a crop targeted with a toxic chemical or after eating insects that died from its effects.
For more information about wildlife gardening, visit the RSPB website or the Wildlife Trusts website.