Live on Farm: How Much Habitat do I Need?

How to Create Wildlife Habitats on Farms: An Interview with Marek Nowakowski

Host: Tony Smith | Guest: Marek Nowakowski, Wildlife and Environment Expert

In this episode of Tramlines, Marek Nowakowski discusses the importance of wildlife habitats on farms and the practical steps farmers can take to integrate biodiversity into their farm management plans.   

SFI, stewardship and the environment are important topics of conversation. We look specifically at wildlife habitat and the important benefits for both wildlife and farm productivity.

Asking how much habitat I need?

Why Should Farmers Focus on Wildlife Habitats?

Marek Nowakowski: It’s an exciting time because we're seeing a lot of research on how much habitat is needed, where it should be placed, and what type of habitat is most beneficial. But what's important now is quality of delivery. It's about putting the right habitat in the right place to achieve environmental gains and enhance farm productivity.

How Much Habitat Does a Farm Need?

Marek Nowakowski: There are three critical components: home, food, and mates. The amount of habitat you need depends on what you’re trying to achieve.

For example, pollinators need different habitats than birds or small mammals. We’re looking at habitat diversity and spatial distribution to ensure the farm benefits both wildlife and productivity.

What Types of Wildlife Habitats Should Farmers Create?

Marek Nowakowski: There are several key habitats to focus on, such as:

• Hedges: Great for birds, vertebrates, and invertebrates, hedges act as corridors across the farm.
• Tussocky Grass: Provides homes for small mammals and insects like bumblebees, spiders, and beetles.
• Bare Ground: Essential for mining bees, which are among the best pollinators.

What Species Should Farmers Aim to Attract?

Marek Nowakowski: Yes, the "hungry gap" from March to May is critical. During this time, early blooming plants like flowering trees and shrubs are vital, along with species like red and white dead nettle. Later in the season, sown mixtures of wildflowers provide diverse food sources for a variety of beneficial insects.

Where Should Wildlife Habitats Be Located?

Marek Nowakowski: Think of it like petrol stations for insects. Insects can only travel so far, so you need to ensure they have access to food sources within a 300-meter radius. This means placing habitats at strategic points throughout the farm. Field margins and flower strips are particularly effective for attracting beneficial insects like crop predators.

How Can Farmers Balance Wildlife Habitats and Farming?

Marek Nowakowski: It’s all about a planned approach. Farmers need to assess their land, identify low-yielding areas, and convert those into wildlife habitats. This not only supports biodiversity but also enhances farm profitability by qualifying for payments under stewardship schemes. By doing so, farmers create a win-win scenario—boosting wildlife while maintaining productivity.

What's the Next Step for Farmers?

Marek Nowakowski: Training is key. Farmers aren’t born knowing how to grow wheat or manage wildlife habitats—it’s something they need to learn. Agrii offers training programs to support farmers in successfully integrating wildlife management into their farming practices.

Conclusion: A Win-Win for Farmers and Wildlife

Marek Nowakowski: By planning wildlife habitats strategically, farmers can enhance biodiversity and boost their farm’s gross margin. It’s not just about saving the environment—it’s about making farms more sustainable and productive in the long run.

Read more on how you can enhance the environment with a range of resources here: Environmental Consultancy