How to build a wildlife stack
Find out how to make a home for wildlife in four easy steps, with the help of our practical guide.
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
To do | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes | yes |
A wildlife stack creates the right mix of habitats for a wide range of species, throughout the year.
No room for a wildlife stack? Then find out how to make a bee hotel.
Creatures such as centipedes, bumblebee queens and beetles need a cool and dry shelter to winter in, so the nooks and crannies within a bundle of sticks or pine cones make a perfect retreat.
Amphibians might rest among stones and roof tiles, while holes drilled into logs and posts will lure spiders, plus nesting solitary bees in spring and summer.
A homemade wildlife stack is easy to make, from salvaged or reclaimed materials and items from around the garden. Follow our four simple instructions for making one.
You Will Need
- Wooden palettes (3)
- Small terracotta pots (10)
- Pine cones
- Bricks and stones
- Logs
- Roof tiles and felt
- Drawing pins
- Sticks or bamboo canes
- Hollow plant stems like sunflower and fennel
Step 1
Choose a location that is out of the way and lay your first pallet on the ground, making sure that it lies level.
Step 2
Arrange upturned plant pots and other materials in and on top of the pallet. Repeat the process with two more pallets.
Step 3
Fix a layer of roofing felt over the top pallet with drawing pins. Leave some felt hanging over the side to keep things dry.
Step 4
Decorate the top of the stack wiith pine cones, logs and roofing tiles, packing in as much as possible.
Place your home near wildlife-friendly plants
Locating your wildlife home near wildlife-friendly plants will ensure it soon lures guests in.Jan subscription offer
Get our Year Planner 2025 with a subscription to BBC Gardeners' World magazine. Get 6 issues for £14.99.
Your Guide to Roses on sale now
Love roses? Inside our guide is everything you need to know for success with your blooms, from pruning to problem solving. On sale in stores and online now!
Discover our NEW Travel & Events Brochure
Whether it's the vibrant beauty of Madeira's Flower Festival or the quiet luxury of a Cornish shepherd's hut, our NEW Travel & Events Brochure is your guide to unforgettable experiences.
New podcast series
Give your mental and physical health a boost, with our new Wellness podcast series from Monty and the team.