Helping Wildlife
Ways to help Wildlife
1. Always keep dogs and cats under control.
Don’t let them run loose. Cats can disturb, maim, or kill nesting birds
as well as young birds just out of the nest during breeding season.
The bacteria transmitted in a cat bite will quickly cause infection
and become life threatening. If cats are permitted outside, put at least
two bells on their collar to help alert birds that danger is nearby,
giving them extra time to escape.
2. Before you cut down or prune trees
and shrubs, check very carefully for nesting birds. You could unintentionally
destroy a nest by trimming too closely or destroy the habitats provided
in the tree. It is always best to leave dead trees or snags standing.
They provide food and shelter for many birds throughout the year. As
an added benefit, you can enjoy the wildlife attracted by snags!
3. Never feed wildlife. Natural diets
are always more nutritious for wildlife than human food. Bird feeders
can be stocked with balanced mixes of different seed, appropriate for
the birds in your area. Old bakery goods do not supply nutritional levels
for good health, especially when birds are preparing for migration or
breeding.
4. Many birds depend on insects in and
around our backyards. So, limiting the use of insecticides can help
protect the health of our wildlife and water resources too. Instead
of using dangerous chemicals, contact local conservation groups to obtain
ideas for environmentally safe alternatives.
5. Reflections from windows can confuse
birds. This may cause them to fly into the glass or repeatedly peck
at what they see as their competition. Some simple remedies include
breaking up the reflections with stickers, or a little bird reflector
that are very cheap to purchase.
6. Never litter! All species of birds
can become easily entangled in man-made products such as plastic, fishing
line, cans, and bottles. Struggling to be free of such entrapment’s often
results in serious injury or death. Help by disposing of litter properly,
and recycle whatever you can.
7. During the bonfire season and during
the autumn garden-clearing season, please check fires prior to lighting
them because Hedgehogs amongst other creatures find these to be ideal
homes.
8. If you take an animal to a wildlife
rehabilitator, you can help by taking a donation of food, money, or
volunteer your time and talents. Keep in mind that most organizations
rely solely on donations from caring people like you. Your thoughtfulness
will be greatly appreciated.
Don’t hesitate to contact us for any
information regarding any creature you may have concerns for.
Remember