This is the book that really peaked my interest in ways to garden that would also benefit wildlife. I purchased this small manual in 1989 and continue to use it as a source of reference. The author, Craig Tufts wrote it while he was a naturalist for the National Wildlife Federation.The book covers a lot of different material and there are six chapters: MAKING A PLACE FOR WILDLIFE---FEEDING BIRDS---WHO'S WHO AMONG YOUR BACKYARD BIRDS---IT'S A JUNGLE OUT THERE---MAKING OTHER VISITORS WELCOME and WOOING WILDLIFE WITH WATER, FLOWERS AND SHELTER.
The information provided is just what I was looking for. I've used the easy recipe for making hummingbird nectar for years and I keep four feeders going all summer. A great thrill was seeing seven hummingbirds at one time all hovering for a place at a feeder. You can also learn which plants are best so that you can entice these lovely little birds to your garden. The little "Hummers" are attracted to bright colors and prefer flowers that are tubular in shape such as lobelia and trumpet vine.
Most people are familiar with the marigold plant, but besides being easy to grow, the flowers also provide food for several bird species. This book is also chock full of fascinating information about butterflies, birds, bugs and various other creatures. Oh, one last teaser, you can also learn the identity of the Tomato Bandit, the robber and thief of many gardens.
I did have the opportunity to meet the author when we both attended a butterfly count a few years ago. I had my trusty book with me and he was kind enough to autograph it for me.
