Since its opening in 2006, the National Garden has quickly become a diverse habitat for all sorts of wildlife. More than 30 different bird species have been recorded in the garden to date. These birds are an important part of the garden, and serve as great indicators of its health and vitality. We often think of plants as useful to humans without thinking of the habitat and food source they provide for wildlife. Covering three acres of downtown Washington, D.C., the National Garden serves as a lush haven in the midst of the city. The native plants in the Regional Garden give the local birds food and shelter, as their naturally occurring habitat continues to dwindle. This list is designed to serve as a companion to the plant life in the garden, providing a more complete view of the garden’s inhabitants and the relationships between them. Understanding relationships between plants, animals, and their environments can help to preserve the natural world.