The best hedge for wildlife has been planted to provide birds and other wildlife habitats. A well-planted hedge will provide shelter for birds, insects, mammals, and reptiles; food sources in all seasons; places to nest and raise young, hibernate or overwinter; and protection from predators. Native shrubs and trees like hawthorn, field maple, blackthorn, and beech—which offer berries for birds in the wintertime—hornbeam and holly make excellent hedges.