I am new to the forum. I've frequented the butterfly forum in the past but I'm wanting to focus on attracting more types of wildlife.

Last year, while working in my garden I saw what I think was a five lined skink. At first it looked like a small snake, but then I noticed some very tiny legs and feet. It was slower moving than the skinks I've seen in the woods.

I also saw a ribbon snake poking it's little head out of some violets.

I have not seen either of these critters a second time.

Then, last spring, I had a new visitor....a gray squirrel. He stayed for a few weeks and left. I think he was having trouble competing with all the fox squirrels in my area.

My question is this:

What are some things I can do to encourage these three visitors to stay around my yard? Any suggestions are appreciated.