Nature Canada

Enjoy the Outdoors, Without Unwanted Wildlife

Image of Samantha Nurse

Samantha Nurse, Web and Social Media Coordinator

While your yard might provide you with food from the garden, the beauty of nature and the pleasure of the outdoors, it also provides habitat and food for a wide range of wildlife – some welcome, and some not so welcome. No matter how hard we try, there are some members of the natural world we just can’t get along with.

When mosquitoes, aphids or grubs come into conflict with humans, many people automatically reach for toxic chemical solutions. Unfortunately, poisons, pesticides and herbicides are indiscriminate and can harm or kill desirable wildlife as well, not to mention the effects on you and your family.

Here are our top eco-friendly tips for keeping those unwanted visitors away:

Use Natural Insect Repellents
Essential oils derived from plants can be used as natural repellents against pesky insects. Look for lemongrass, cedar and eucalyptus to provide protection from a range of pests including mosquitoes, ants and fleas. Repellents using natural sources usually need to be reapplied more often than their toxic counterparts. Essential oils are safe to use on your skin, and many of them can also be applied to pets and pet bedding; however, it’s best to read the label of your product for appropriate use.

Attract Beneficial Insects and Their Relatives
Not all insects are pests in the garden; many will prey on the bugs that damage your plants. The best way to invite beneficial insects and their relatives (e.g., spiders) to your garden is to include a variety of native plants including grasses, flowers, shrubs and trees. You can also purchase live specimens or eggs of many friendly species.

Wash Bad Bugs Away
Aphids can often be removed from ornamental plants simply with a blast of water from the hose. To control larger numbers of parasitic insects in the garden, Neem oil can be sprayed directly on the plant and infestation. Ordinary dish soap and water (30mL of non-detergent soap in 1L of water) also works; it should be applied and left on for up to 30 minutes before being rinsed off. This treatment can be repeated twice a week for a few weeks. For less severe pest problems, you can also pick off the offending insects by hand.

Attract Birds
Besides being cheerful wild neighbours, many common birds prey on pest insects. Attracting birds to your yard with hanging feeders, bird baths and nest boxes will increase its beauty while reducing the number of flying pests.

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