ABSTRACT
Adopting a restorative approach to the design of urban patches that incorporates the spatial patterns and species found in existing patches of natural vegetation associated with wildlife habitat may minimize the negative impacts of enhancing the connectedness of corridors and patches. This chapter discusses a design framework for developing such areas, in addition to the significance of selection and arrangement of plants for attracting wildlife in urban spaces. Initial analysis at a larger scale allows recommendations to be developed relating to connectedness of the habitat site with existing patches of habitat, appropriateness of habitat location, and compatibility with the existing plant communities of a large metropolitan area. It is important to acknowledge the potential for backyard wildlife areas to become nodes within a series of associated patches that serve as stopovers and habitat for native birds. Successful wildlife habitat areas can be created through an emphasis on thorough site analysis, careful arrangement of plantings and attention to plant species selection.
