Why it matters

At Moonlit Sanctuary we believe caring for native wildlife begins at home. By choosing the right plants and designing thoughtful garden spaces, you can provide food, shelter and water for our native animals. Your backyard (or balcony) can become part of a broader wildlife corridor that supports birds, small mammals, and insects alike.

Here are some easy steps to get started: –

1. Take stock of what you already have

Before starting a major re-do, take a moment to look around:

• Which plants are already attracting birds, insects or native mammals?
• Are there spots that remain bare or under-used by wildlife?
• Is there water accessible to animals?

Rather than ripping everything out, consider building on what’s already there. Add missing elements gradually which keeps the garden manageable and means the wildlife can adapt naturally.

2. Choose native plants

Native plants are the unsung heroes of wildlife gardens; they’re adapted to local conditions and are well suited to the fauna that evolved alongside them. Native plants: –

• Provide the correct types of nectar, berries, seeds and shelter for native birds and mammals.
• Are less likely to become weeds or require heavy fertiliser or care.
• Help create continuity with surrounding bushland.

If you live near our region in Pearcedale or the Mornington Peninsula, choosing local indigenous species helps even more. If they’re not available, broader native plants are still far better than exotics or hybrids.