Habitat at Home

Habitat at Home, formerly known as the Backyard Wildlife Sanctuary Program, is the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife's effort to encourage Washingtonians to connect with nature where they live, work, and play. By learning ways to increase biodiversity through planting native plants, coexisting with wildlife, and making decisions that positively impact the health of our communities, we can all make a difference. Download and share the Habitat at Home brochure (PDF). Y Hábitat en tu Hogar en español (PDF).

The Habitat at Home program is free and open to all Washington residents. 

Collage of Washington wildlife featuring a swallow, chipmunk, newt, frog, and bumble bee
Photo by Conner Neander, Allison Lamb, Misty Mixon, and Craig Newberry

What makes a habitat?

A wildlife habitat is a combination of four elements: food, water, shelter, and space. Learn more by clicking below on the size of the space you have to work with (small space, yard, or community space) or explore what you can do to create wildlife habitat for specific species group. We hope you will discover fun and impactful ways to support wildlife regardless of your expertise, how much space you have, or where you live.

Did you know? Nature habitats don't just benefit wildlife, it benefits you too. Native plants are adapted to the natural rainfall and weather conditions in your area, and require less maintenance. Indigenous plants help reduce storm water runoff and can decrease the heat island effect on your home.

  • Small Space Habitats

    Bringing habitat to balconies, patios, and other small or mobile areas.

  • Wildlife Habitat Yards

    Habitat building tips for yards, acreage, or larger spaces.

  • Community Habitats

    Habitats for school, work, and other communal areas.

  • Encouraging Acceptance of Wildlife Habitats

    It is important to co-exist with wildlife and it’s important be considerate of those we share our community with.  Whether you rent or own, here are some tips on how to build wildlife habitat at home in a responsible way.  

  • Creating Pollinator Habitats

    Learn about our native bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds and all our local pollinators! Find ways you can support them right where you live using our tips on providing food, water, shelter, and space. 

  • Creating Bat Habitat

    Support bats and other nocturnal species with plant lists for night-blooming gardens, lists of the most important trees species used by bats, water sources, bats houses, and ways to observe bats in your area. 

  • Creating Songbird Habitat

    Support local songbirds through plants that provide food, birdbath placement and care, bird feeder best practices, and intentional nest box design. Observe songbirds near you through bird-watching and community science opportunities. 

  • Stewardship at Home

    Understanding local species, planning ahead for having wildlife visit our space, and knowing what to do if conflicts occur can help us be good stewards of our spaces. 

  • Community Science at Home

    Contribute to research and science efforts from home, while learning more about local wildlife.