From the SPCA’s Wildlife Department

PLANT NATIVE SPECIES

Many people ask us what they can do for wildlife and the best thing you can do is plant native species.

Over the last 100 years or so, the continental United States has lost millions of acres of habitat due to our obsession with the perfect lawn. This monoculture of green carpet doesn’t support a functioning ecosystem. What does this mean? There are less and less healthy areas to support wildlife and a system that can support our very own human livelihood. Our future depends on supporting wildlife and a healthy ecosystem.

What can you do?

PLANT NATIVE SPECIES.

Native plant species have co-evolved along with certain native insects. The native insects support the native birds. This important relationship is the very thing that supports the healthy ecosystems that we need to continue to live in harmony with nature.

If you’re interested in learning more about this very humane approach to conservation in your own yard, please check out the book, Nature’s Best Hope: A New Approach to Conservation That Starts in Your Yard, by Douglas W. Tallamy.

Also, if you need help with choosing native species for your home or business property check out wnynativeplants.org!! They can help you with appropriate wildlife-friendly plants for your outdoor spaces.

And if you need help with sick, injured, or orphaned wildlife, please don’t hesitate to call our hotline, available 7 days per week, 365 days per year, at 716-875-7360 ext. 247.

To support our efforts to help local wildlife, please donate here.