Another Year Gone By!
What Can I Do to Help Animals and the Planet?
At the end of each year, we often reflect on what we can do, maybe could have done, maybe do better. Good thoughts. Now what do you do? There isn’t one animal/environmental non-profit out there that would not accept (gratefully) a dollar donation. If that is all you can afford, then go for it!
There are many other things one can do in your own backyard or apartment balcony that have a positive impact on Nature. Rewilding is one easy and helpful way for native species to thrive. Here are some tips.
Rewilding Steps
Rewilding restores habitats by reintroducing missing species and repairing damaged ecosystems. The goal is to let Nature take care of herself through her natural biodiverse habitats. The ultimate goal of rewilding is that it requires little or no human intervention.
Here is how to start:
Stop Using Fertilizers and Pesticides
Fertilizers and pesticides can damage and deplete the soil over time. They can kill more species than one intended to kill.
Observe What Is Already There
Ask yourself what is already growing? Are there native plants there now? Do you notice any wildlife coming in now? Where do they nest or hide? Is there a water supply?
Choose Insect-Friendly Plants
Be sure to plant native species. They offer more nutrients to native wildlife. The more colors and varieties of flowers and plants, the easier it is for them to be seen. The longer they flower also ensures more food for insects. Try to include fruit-bearing trees.
Create Compost to Feed the Soil
Soil needs carbon and nitrogen in order to establish a healthy balance. Carbon is everything ‘brown’ and provides energy for the microbes in the compost such as leaves and branches. Nitrogen is everything ‘green’ that has been growing and will provide moisture such as animal manure, coffee grounds, grass clippings or food scraps.
Create Wildlife Corridors
Even planting along existing paths can create wildlife corridors. Fences are barriers for wildlife. They need places to move through or hide. Leaving gaps in hedges and letting grass grow tall allows for movement and places to rest or hide.
Even more Rewilding tips
Build a Small Habitat
Creating piles of wood and leaves to rot is important for several reasons. Wood piles create habitat for small mammals, birds, invertebrates, fungi, and moss. Wood piles also protect soil from drying out by being exposed to direct sunlight and help to retain water. A sustainable source of carbon compost is created from the rotting wood. A bug box or bug hotel is another place where native insects can lay their eggs, rest or hide.
Build a Pond
If you are fortunate enough to have the space, you can add the element of water. A pond can provide habitat for amphibians and invertebrates and is a source of water for small mammals and birds.
See more here: https://www.wildlifetrusts.org/actions/how-create-mini-pond
As Dr. Jane Goodall says, “Nature can win, if we give her a chance.” Shall we?
