Are children losing touch with nature? Studies show that British children are losing touch with nature with potentially serious consequences for both them and our wildlife. In the August 2008 edition of BBC Wildlife magazine, Fergus Collins surveyed 700 children in the Bristol and Bath area to discover the scale of the problem and researched expert solutions. He set out to find out if they could recognise local common wild animals and plants, and whether they have any contact with the natural world. It makes for fascinating and shocking reading. 

Is the problem that children would rather watch television and play computer games than get out in the fresh air and explore? Probably not. Playing hide-and-seek, building dens and rope swings etc are still top of most children's agenda given the chance. So what is the answer and how can a school or community wildlife garden help turn the situation around? Read more...

A wildlife pond is an essential part of a wildlife garden. Even a small pond will add a whole new habitat to your wildlife garden, attracting frogs and toads and providing food and water for many other creatures. Find out how to plan, make and stock your pond. Go

We have a whole section devoted to schools. Wildlife gardens can be an invaluable teaching resource. Find out how your school can use the wildlife garden in all areas of the National Curriculum - not just in science! Go

Composting is beneficial to our environment and can also save you money. As well as reducing the amount of waste that goes into landfill each year, waste organic matter such as fruit and vegetables can be easily be turned into top quality compost. You don't even need to buy a composter - we show you how to make one. Go