DiscoverNEPA is all about celebrating Northeastern Pennsylvania’s abundant and vibrant natural spaces. We want you to get outside, relax and unwind in the mountain air, among the towering trees, along the crystal-clear lakes and streams. We just want to make sure everyone enjoys these places safely and respectfully.
That’s why we’re teaming up with state agencies, local conservation authorities and outdoor enthusiasts to bring you expert advice, tips and so much more to help you enjoy NEPA’s great outdoors.
Doing Your Part to Help NEPA Wildlife from Home
As a wildlife enthusiast, you may be wondering if there is anything that you can do to help benefit wildlife on your own property. As it turns out, we here with the Pennsylvania Game Commission have just the right answer that you might be looking for. Whether you own large quantities of land or have a small backyard, these 6 pieces of advice can help benefit wildlife across NEPA as well as increase your wildlife viewing pleasure from the comfort of your own home.
1. Let Wildlife be Wild
We are in the heart of springtime in NEPA which means wildlife species like nesting songbirds, deer fawns and rabbit kits are born. If you spot newborn or young wildlife, please do not disturb them. Oftentimes young wildlife might appear to be abandoned, but please know that adult wildlife will leave their young alone and hidden to avoid attracting predators. The adult will only visit the young a few times a day to feed. If you suspect juvenile wildlife is abandoned, please give the animal space and contact the PGC.
2. Plant Native Plants
Planting native trees, shrubs and flowers creates both food and cover for many wildlife species. Native plants benefit songbirds, bats, small mammals and so much more, which plays an important role in sustaining healthy ecosystems. Non-native or invasive plants can often outcompete our native plants and do not provide nearly as many benefits to wildlife.
3. Install a Nest Box
Placing a nest box on your property can provide safe nesting areas for many species of birds and small mammals. Properly managed nest boxes can be critically important to cavity-nesting species like blue birds, purple martins and much more.
4. Create Leaf and Brush Piles for Habitat
Songbirds and small mammals will use brush piles for nesting, resting, escaping from predators, and sheltering from harsh weather conditions.
5. Secure Food and Garbage
Once a bear finds an easy access to food, they are likely to come back for more. To limit human-bear interactions, be sure to bring pet food and bird feeders in at night. Keep trash cans and recycling bins inside until collection day and clean and remove grease from your backyard grills often.
6. Slow the Mow
Wait until after nesting season to begin mowing fallow fields and large yards. This will benefit a variety of grassland-nesting bird species and support pollinators.
And finally, please enjoy wildlife from a distance and let’s celebrate the sights and sounds of spring!
Featured image (top) courtesy of PA Game Commission.
