Backcourt Biodiversity
What is biodiversity?
Biodiversity is the variety of living things on earth, from the smallest insect to the largest mammal and tree. It encompasses the variation within a species and the complex ecosystems, or habitats, where they are found. It is not just restricted to rare species or threatened wildlife sites, but includes the whole of the natural world. It is also about how we interact with the natural world. A healthy local biodiversity is a reflection of a healthy, sustainable community. As such, biodiversity is as much about our quality of life as it is nature conservation.What to do about it?
Backcourts can be used to enrich biodiversity and the local environment, even in a small way. Many native species whose habitat is disappearing would appreciate another small corner in which to grow or feed. An enriched biodiversity is also likely to bring enjoyment to many of the residents through encouraging birds, butterflies and wild flowers. This offers an opportunity for bird and nature watching which is often rare in the urban environment.There is much good advice available for attracting wildlife into gardens and many of these suggestions can be easily applied to a backcourt. For example:-
- Provide water with a birdbath or a small wildlife pond, making sure this is safe for children.
- Leave some ‘messy’ corners – a pile of logs, stones or sticks and cane will create an ideal habitat for insects.
- Leave some grassy areas which are only cut annually, to provide food and shelter.
- Provide bird nest boxes and bird feeders. Bat boxes are also easy to set up.
- Plant nectar-rich native plants to encourage bees and butterflies. For example, perennials such as jasmine, thyme and lavender are all a rich source of food for insects.
- Climbing plants such as ivy, honeysuckle and clematis provide nesting cover for birds, as well as being another source of nectar bearing flowers.
- Plant berry bearing trees and shrubs to help feed birds.
- Use home made or peat-free compost.
- Don’t use chemicals in your garden, be organic!
Keeping a balance
Obviously, some wildlife can become a nuisance and should not be encouraged in the backcourt. Too many pigeons, seagulls, rats, foxes and mice are not pleasant to deal with. But these can be discouraged by a few safeguards:-- Keep rubbish in the waste bins, especially any food waste. Tidy and clean bin areas are less attractive to animals, and more attractive to humans.
- Ensure that the bins lids are closely fitting and properly shut at all times.
- Do not feed pets outdoors.
- Be responsible when feeding birds – hang up bird feeders rather than throwing bird food on the ground. The RSPB gives excellent advice on the best types of feeders.
- If there is composting in the backcourt, make sure that any kitchen waste is composted in a vermin-proof container.
Where to find out more
Further information about biodiversity and what can be done to encourage it:-Scottish Biodiversity Forum
The Scottish Biodiversity Forum is an umbrella group open to everyone; from individuals to large public bodies, from non-government environmental organisations to business, from national government to local biodiversity action plan partnerships.
Check with your local authority too – the department(s) involved with local parks and the environment will be working to improve the biodiversity of the area through their Local Biodiversity Action Plan. They will be able to give you information about local priorities.
UK Steering Group on Biodiversity Further information about biodiversity and some of the UK Government’s biodiversity initiatives and strategies.
Space for Nature (Garden Biodiversity Forum) – Useful information and advice on gardening to support wildlife from the Merseyside Biodiversity Group.
Directgov – Greener Gardens - A wealth of information on composting, pesticides, allotments and environmentally friendly gardening.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds - Advice and guidelines on planning a wildlife garden, encouraging biodiversity and feeding birds.
Scotland’s Biodiversity
Scotland is home to over 90,000 different species, including viruses and bacteria. This includes over 20 thousand different plants and fungi, and 242 species of birds.(Quoted from “It’s in you hands; - A strategy for the conservation and enhancement of biodiversity in Scotland”, published by the Scottish Executive, 2004)
Urban biodiversity
In 10 square kilometres centred on Govan, Glasgow can boast a biodiversity of nearly 2,000 different species. This includes 1,081 different flowering plants, 144 types of fungus, 98 types of beetles, 78 species of bird, 43 types of butterfly, 41 different kinds of spiders, 27 mosses and 20 ferns.(Collated from information provided on the National Biodiversity Network website through their Gateway to Datasets)
Click here to download Biodiversity information sheet
