Anne Readel

3 weeks ago | sierraclub.org | Anne Readel

With climate change accelerating and biodiversity declining, it’s easy to feel powerless. However, just beyond your doorstep lies an opportunity to make a real difference—your yard. Even a small patch of native habitat can provide food and shelter for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators while helping you reconnect with nature.

1 month ago | bhg.com | Anne Readel

Photo: Mike Powles / Getty Images Many people love to support their backyard birds with food and water, but they don’t always realize they can also provide nesting materials in spring. However, choosing the right materials can be confusing. Holly Grant, a project assistant for NestWatch at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, offers expert advice on which nesting materials are safe for birds and which to avoid. Holly Grant is a project assistant for NestWatch at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.

Jan 18, 2025 | bhg.com | Anne Readel

Photo: Annie Otzen / Getty Images If you want to attract more birds to your yard, think beyond feeders. Since all birds need water, bird baths will draw a larger diversity of birds than seed feeders, says Becca Rodomsky-Bish, project leader at the Cornell Lab of Ornithology.   Access to water is important for birds in winter, especially in northern climates where unfrozen sources are often in short supply.

Nov 25, 2024 | smithsonianmag.com | Anne Readel

Wild turkeys are causing a stir in cities across the United States. Whether strutting down sidewalks, stopping traffic or foraging in yards, these once-elusive birds are no longer just creatures of the countryside. Now, they’re making themselves at home in urban environments, turning neighborhoods, parks and golf courses into their new stomping grounds. Yet, while urban wild turkeys are thriving, their rural counterparts face mounting challenges.

Oct 9, 2024 | bhg.com | Anne Readel

Photo: Jason Donnelly Decorating yards with pumpkins, lights, and seasonal displays is a beloved fall tradition. But whether you're creating a cozy autumn atmosphere or a spooky Halloween scene, some decorations can be harmful to wildlife. Here are five tips for decorating your yard this fall to make it both safe and welcoming for wildlife. 1. Avoid Fake Spider Webs While fake spider webs add an eerie feel to your fall decor, they can be a real nightmare for wildlife.