| Re: What kind of hedge?
Native hedges are obviously good, but many exotic species are wildlife friendly too. Remember many of the native species mentioned are deciduous; Holly being an exception- so think if you want more screening in the winter.
Some of the popular exotics are in the same botanical families as natives + often support more wildlife than credited for. Also a few well chosen evergreens will provide shelter for birds, small mammals + invertebrates from the worst winter weather. Berberis darwinii is a good hedge plant with lovely golden flowers in the spring loved by bees + the berries adored by birds, Some of the Cotoneasters + Pyracantha also make good hedges, with flowers that attract a variety of insects + the fruits are eaten by many creatures too. I would avoid sclerophyll species such as Laurels though.
Remember in a garden environment you don't have to be purist, enjoy a mix of native + exotic. The BUGS survey in Sheffield (read No Nettles required by Ken Thompson) showed that when well selected exotics could attract as many (or more) than some natives.  |