Planting trees is a great way to attract wildlife to your yard. Trees provide food, shelter, and nesting sites for a variety of animals. Choosing the right trees for your area can make a big difference in the types of wildlife you attract. Here are some top trees for attracting wildlife to your yard:

1. Oak trees: Oak trees are one of the best trees for attracting wildlife. They provide food and shelter for a wide range of animals, including squirrels, chipmunks, deer, and birds. The acorns produced by oak trees are a favorite food source for many animals.
2. Fruit trees: Fruit trees, such as apple, pear, and cherry trees, provide food for a variety of animals, including birds, squirrels, and even bears. They also provide nesting sites for birds.
3. Dogwood trees: Dogwood trees are a favorite of many birds, including the northern cardinal and blue jay. They produce small red berries that are eaten by many animals, including squirrels and deer.
4. Willow trees: Willow trees provide food and shelter for a variety of animals, including birds, beavers, and otters. Their leaves are also an important food source for caterpillars, which are in turn eaten by birds.
5. Pine trees: Pine trees provide shelter for birds and small mammals, and their seeds are a favorite food source for many animals, including squirrels and chipmunks.
6. Maple trees: Maple trees provide food and shelter for a variety of animals, including birds and squirrels. Their sap is also an important food source for many animals, including deer and bears.
7. Birch trees: Birch trees are a favorite of many birds, including the American goldfinch and the yellow-rumped warbler. They provide food for a variety of animals, including squirrels and deer.
8. Redbud trees: Redbud trees are a favorite of many birds, including the eastern bluebird and the northern flicker. They produce small edible pods that are eaten by many animals, including squirrels and deer.

When selecting trees for your yard, it’s important to consider the needs of the wildlife in your area. Look for trees that provide food and shelter for a variety of animals. Planting a variety of trees will also help attract a wider range of wildlife.

In addition to planting trees, you can also provide additional habitat for wildlife by creating brush piles and leaving dead trees standing. These provide shelter and nesting sites for many animals.

It’s also important to avoid using pesticides and other chemicals in your yard. These can be harmful to wildlife and can reduce the number of insects and other animals that rely on the trees for food.

In summary, planting trees is a great way to attract wildlife to your yard. By selecting the right trees and providing additional habitat, you can create a haven for birds, squirrels, and other animals.

References: FrankPMatthews, NWF