While fewer mosquitos may be a good thing for many people, the loss of other bugs and wildlife isn’t. Throughout the world, populations of many different types of creatures are significantly lower than they were in the past – and that has a huge impact on the world as a whole as well as local areas. Protecting wildlife and helping conserve nature to support future wildlife populations doesn’t need to be hard. A few little things done at home can help significantly change the destruction happening today.
Minimize Grass Areas in the Yard
Products used can have far-reaching impacts. Chemicals that are commonly used in yards can negatively affect the surrounding areas. Even worse, the pollution that is created by runoff can end up impacting things much further away – like the hibernation schedules for various animals. Less grass in the yard means less fertilizer, chemical pest treatments, and a lot more. It also helps conserve water, as much less will be needed if there is less grass in the yard. Instead of grass, plant gardens with native flowers and bushes.
Plant Native Flowers and Bushes
Wildlife habitats are full of plants that naturally grow in the area – these plants are beneficial for the wildlife and grow with fewer resources. Yet, many homes have gardens full of plants from other areas. When a plant is not native, it’s going to require more resources like water to grow. It’s also going to take a lot more work to get it to grow. Native plants are much easier to grow in the area, and a lot less water is needed for them because they’ve adapted to the local area.
Create Homes for Wildlife
Little homes for wildlife can be bright, fun additions to any yard. Plus, they can provide tons of entertainment as you sit and watch the wildlife. Bird feeders and homes are the perfect way to invite wildlife into the yard and to give them a home they’ll love. Be sure to pick out the right feeders and homes for the local area so they’ll be used by native birds. If desired, look into building creative and fun houses that birds and other creatures will love to use. Once the birds find their new home, they’ll not only be fun to watch but can help reduce pests like bugs in the yard naturally.
Minimize Light Pollution
Many people have outdoor lights they leave on throughout the evening. Unfortunately, this creates light pollution, which can have devastating impacts on local ecosystems. Wildlife doesn’t understand that it’s artificial light and should be ignored, so it interrupts their lives significantly. Instead, only use lights when they’re needed and where they are useful. Motion-detector lights can be used for security instead of porch lights, minimizing the amount of light pollution created.
Volunteer in Local Organizations
Volunteering is a fantastic way to give back to the local area and help native wildlife thrive. Look for local organizations that help clean up the area, help with conservation efforts, or otherwise have goals to help the local wildlife. There are rescue organizations for wildlife, as well. These organizations can use donations like old towels that would otherwise be thrown out, and it might be a great opportunity to learn more about local wildlife populations and what they need to thrive.
Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
A ton of waste is created every single day. Ever pay attention to how much trash is thrown out each week? Reducing what is used, reusing anything that is still in good condition, and recycling as much waste as possible are great ways to reduce trash and help the environment. There are plenty of ways to reduce, reuse and recycle, including using reusable shopping bags, opting for reusable cups for coffee and tea, and recycling plastics and papers when they’re no longer needed.
If you’ve always wanted to look for more ways to help wildlife, there are little things you can start doing now that will make a difference. Try out the different ideas on this list to see how easy it is to make changes from home that can impact the entire world. Just one small change can end up having a huge difference, so anything that can be done will help.
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