Backyard Biodiversity

Fall is an excellent time of year to attract birds to your yard, and one of the best ways to do so is by planting fall food sources. Native fall-fruiting shrubs are great choices because they produce an abundance of nutritious fruit exactly when migrating and winter-residing birds need them.

Native shrubs are a wonderful addition to your backyard, especially if you have limited planting space, want some added privacy, or are looking to promote greater biodiversity in your yard. Plus, they provide many of the same benefits for backyard birds as trees do!

Did you know that the plant choices we make in our gardens can impact the urban forest and the wildlife that call it home? Non-native, invasive species continue to be popular garden choices and are widely available for purchase. Unfortunately, these species can escape our yards and wreak havoc in natural areas! The good news is that there are many beautiful native species that can be planted in their stead that have similar characteristics and only positive consequences for nature!

The urban forest is made up of more than just the trees in our cities. Urban wildlife also share it with us. Some wildlife migrate south for the winter or go into hibernation throughout the cold season, but many birds and mammals do not. The best way to help those which overwinter here is to create and maintain a healthy, thriving and diverse urban forest with enough options for winter habitat. Here are six native species for winter Backyard Biodiversity.

LEAF and the Toronto Wildlife Centre (TWC) are joining forces to raise awareness on the connection between urban wildlife and the urban forest. Supported by Ontario Power Generation, the Backyard Biodiversity campaign has returned for 2019! And, this year, we are challenging Toronto residents to share what they’re doing to improve our #BackyardBiodiversity.