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Nature Lover’s Wildlife Village in Back Garden

A squirrel poking its head out from inside a nesting box. The box is square and has a small hole cut out in the middle, which is where the squirrel is sat.

Lockdown has brought many of us closer to nature, whether it’s taking walks in parks or setting up bird feeders in our gardens. But one man has taken his love for wildlife to a whole new level. Meet Paul Everitt, a 38-year-old nature enthusiast who has built an incredible wildlife village in his own back garden.

Paul spent a painstaking 18 months creating this impressive climbing frame village, complete with 1.5m high platforms and a series of connecting bridges. But what makes this wildlife village truly unique is the attention to detail. Paul used scrap bits of wood to build a charming Christmas log cabin for the squirrels, complete with a letter ‘P’ as a landing pad for the pigeons.

A wide shot of Paul's garden with the wildlife village visible. There are tall platforms made out of wood and pieces of string connecting the various platforms together.

The standout feature of the village is undoubtedly “The Swingers Club.” No, it’s not what you think! This tower features an infinity pool made of Perspex, providing the wildlife with a refreshing oasis. And let’s not forget the “Corn Tosser” feeding station that spins the squirrels around – a fun and entertaining treat for them.

Paul with a squirrel on his shoulder. He is a man with a beard who is wearing a blue shirt, and his face is half cut-off by the framing of the shot.

So, why did Paul decide to embark on this ambitious project? Well, like many of us, travel restrictions due to the Covid-19 pandemic meant he couldn’t indulge in his usual outdoor adventures. Paul, a self-professed “solo adventurer,” missed the wilderness and wanted a project to keep him occupied at home.

Creating this wildlife haven has been a source of relaxation and joy for Paul. He doesn’t even have a TV! Instead, he sits and watches the wildlife go about their day, creating a peaceful and captivating atmosphere in his garden.

Paul’s wildlife village has attracted not only a daily visit from 10 squirrels but also eight foxes, a badger, and numerous birds. It has become a haven for these creatures, offering them a safe space to enjoy and interact with.

A squirrel climbing a pole in Paul's garden. The squirrel has made its way to a little box high up the pole which has food in it.

This project has not only allowed Paul to express his creativity but also served as a reminder of the importance of building and creating in his life. And the fact that he used only scrap materials to construct the squirrel sanctuary adds an extra touch of resourcefulness and sustainability to the endeavor.