Are you still not convinced that your planting projects will make a difference for wildlife? Revisit the following checklist from time to time. It will remind you of all the benefits that working for wildlife brings.
Wildlife in the twenty-first century: All creatures, from spotted salamanders to great horned owls, are bound to benefit when your planting project improves their living quarters. Your efforts to provide good habitat are the best ways to ensure the wellbeing of Canadian wildlife into the next century.
Food: People can enjoy the fruits of their planting labours too. Cherries, grapes, raspberries, wild strawberries, and plums are favourites with humans and wildlife alike.
Shelter: Windbreaks and hedgerows mean shelter for all kinds of wildlife; they also reduce snow drifts, help control soil erosion, and protect buildings from windy blasts.
Energy savings: Windbreaks and hedgerows mean lower heating bills. When planted in the right spot they can significantly reduce the impact of wintry drafts coming at your house.
Soil conservation: Trees, grasses, and shrubs provide meals and hideouts for wildlife, and their strong roots reduce soil erosion.
Insect control: One small bat can gobble up to 7,000 insects a night. A few other predators that keep uninvited bugs under control are dragonflies, purple martins, and tree swallows. It makes a lot more sense to attract natural predators than to rely on chemicals that harm the environment.
Natural beauty: Native wildflowers, shrubs, hedges, and trees planted for wildlife make beautiful surroundings for humans as well.
Measurable results: Before-and-after surveys of wildlife visitors to your project site will show the positive impact of your labours as your wildlife habitat grows and changes over the years.